5 Reasons You Should Cycle More When Over 40
Turning 40 can be an age when the knocks and bangs of football, rugby or soccer can begin to take its tole. So how do you stay fit and healthy without damaging the bones and joints? – Cycling.
Life begins at 40; so they say and there is absolutely no reason why you can’t remain, if not improve your health.
There’s no denying you must change your lifestyle as you get older to remain fit and joining a cycling club is one tip in particular that works for most. It truly is an all body workout but more importantly it works out the heart and lungs more than the body itself.Here are 5 quick reasons why you should be cycling more often when you hit 40 and why you should join a cycling club here in Cork.
Cycling Controls Your Weight
If you need to shed some weight, cycling is one of the best ways to do this. Cycling raises your metabolic rate which burns body fat more effectively while building muscle. The simple truth is that it easier to maintain even a slow pace while cycling by controlling the gears and intensity in which you cycle. This allows your muscles to rest while keeping your heart pumping. This is essence is the the best balance in how to approach losing weight efficiently (ie) Spinning Classes
Cycling Is Good For Your Bones And Joints
Riding a bike for even 30 minutes a day is ideal for your health (even if you have osteoarthritis) A low-impact exercise that doesn’t stress your joints it also helps in improving your bone and muscle strength, balance and coordination.
Cycling Is Good For Your Heart
Sorry to say, but when over 40 year you are at a greater risk of having cardiovascular diseases such as high blood pressure, heart attacks or stroke. However, these heart diseases will be lessoned if you cycle more. Cycling strengthens your heart muscles and lungs which results in reduced resting pulse and decreased blood fat levels.
Cycling Reduces The Risk Of Cancer
A lot of research has connected the link between physical exercise and cancer. One such study showed that regular cycling reduced the risk of developing bowel cancer as well as breast cancer for women.
Cycling Is Good For Your Emotional Well Being
Another great reason for cycling is fresh air! yes, I said it. Being outdoors and cycling more when over 40 greatly improves mental and emotional health. We all feel better about ourselves after a workout or run but this effect lasts longer with cycling due to the increase of air in the lungs.
Physical activity causes the body to release ‘happy hormones’ such endorphins, dopamine and serotonin. These hormones alter moods in a positive way making you feel happier and less stressed. When you cycle often, your self-esteem and your self-control will begin to improve.
So start today and begin to improve your mood, health and overall well-being. Don’t overthink it, hop on a bike and hit the amazing Greenway of Westport.
I think you’ll surprise yourself how far you go!
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