Everybody that’s anybody in health and fitness is telling us that getting on a bicycle and pedalling around is an excellent physical activity which offers many health benefits. In a nutshell, cycling in fresh air:
- Makes you stronger and fitter;
- Burns up calories and helps control weight;
- Improves your balance and coordination;
- Strengthens the heart and lungs;
- Builds up the muscles of the legs, the back, hips, and arms;
- Increases stamina and endurance;
- Reduces stress; and
- Ensures that the body gets enough vitamin D.
Additional advantages of cycling over other physical activities are that it is relatively easy to learn and does not require high levels of skill. Cycling only has to be as intense as you want it to be. You can start at a gentle pace and build your way up to a demanding workout.
No matter what type of cycling you do or what distances you travel, you will soon become fitter and feel more energised.
Unfortunately, most South African cities are not bicycle-friendly, but don’t let that stop you. Take up cycling as a recreational activity and you will enjoy the invigorating and liberating effects practically from the first turn of the pedals. If you have children, do them a big favour: teach them how to ride a bike. This is a good way to get the little ones excited about exercise from a young age.
Actually, recreational cycling is a great for the whole family, from toddlers to grandparents. Make a habit to spend time cycling either in the morning or late afternoon, preferably in the beautiful scenery of any part of the country you find yourself in.
As more of us take to cycling, we hope that more nature bike trails and bicycle lanes will be created and that the cities around the country will become more and more bike-friendly.
So, get your cycling gear and take your place at the forefront of the active lifestyle on two wheels!
