GET ON YOUR BIKE...

Enjoy and make use of the seven benefits of cycling:

You might ride to save the planet but you’re also saving your brain cells, improving family relations while expanding lung capacity, and increasing your ‘happy hormones’ as you pile on the miles. It is also a great way to get in shape. We look at some of the benefits of cycling and why it is a good exercise that will make you fit and feel great.


It strengthens the heart

Cycling requires sustained energy and lower-body muscular power so is great for strengthening the heart. Your blood will flow more freely and oxygen will be delivered to your muscles more quickly, improving both stamina and fitness.


Increases your brain power

Cycling helps build new brain cells in the hippocampus, the region responsible for memory, which deteriorates from the age of 30. It boosts blood flow and oxygen to the brain, which fires and regenerates receptors, explaining how exercise helps ward off Alzheimer’s.

So if you want your grey matter to sparkle, then get peddling!


Cycle away from the big C

There’s plenty of evidence that any exercise is useful in warding off cancer, but some studies have shown that cycling is especially good for keeping your cells in working order.

One long-term study carried out by Finnish researchers found that men who exercised at a moderate level (of which they cited cycling) for at least 30 minutes a day were half as likely to develop cancer as those who didn’t. Other studies have found that women who cycle frequently reduce their risk of breast cancer by 34 percent.


Helps you live longer

On average, cyclists live two years longer than people who don't ride a bike. In fact, it is believed by health professionals that regular cyclists in their 30's and over are as fit as people 10 years younger.


Burns calories

It kills calories. Cycling is renowned for its calorie-burning qualities. Just take a look at Tour de France finishers who are estimated to burn 118,000 a day!

Sports physiologists have found that the body’s metabolic rate (the efficiency with which it burns calories and fat) is not only raised during a ride, but for several hours afterwards.


It improves breathing

It improves breathing. Strong lungs are vital for pumping oxygen around the blood and energising leg muscles. With constant bike exercise over time, your body’s breathing apparatus will improve.


Its safe

Riding a bike is a low impact activity, meaning it is one of the safest ways to exercise without putting too much strain on your muscles and joints. For people new to exercise, riding a bike will let them get fit without undue physical strain. Cycling is a non-pharmacological method of lowering blood pressure.

(TAKEN FROM:http://lifestyle.malaysia.msn.com/Wellbeing/Fitness/article.aspx?cp-documentid=4054918&page=0)