Lose Weight by Cycling

Cycle your way to Health

Cycling is not only one of the fastest growing sports on the planet it is also offers a good way of losing weight. Swapping your car for two wheels is an extremely healthy option, and here's why;

You strengthen your heart
You can burn fat
You exercise the muscles in your legs, arms, and shoulders
You increase your energy levels
Exercise is known to prevent some forms of illness
You reduce the risk of obesity
Cycling is an extremely low impact sport and puts few stresses on your joints

And, cycling is helping to save the planet from global warming.

Burning Calories through Cycling

Although it is hard to put a precise number on how many calories you burn when cycling, according to the website weightlossresourses.co.uk, dependent on your weight and how much effort you put in, you will burn off the following in thirty minutes:

Recreational cycling, travelling around 5mph / 8km/h - 75-155kcal
Moderate cycling, travelling around 10mph / 16km/h - 190-415kcal
Vigorous cycling, travelling around 15mph / 24km/h - 300-670kcal

The variances are down to how hard it is for you to travel 10mph / 16km/h on a bike. If it is relatively comfortable you will burn off around 190kcal. If it is difficult, 415kcal.
When combined with a calorie controlled diet, weight loss tends to be faster.

How do I start cycling?

Cycling is a very easy sport to take up. All you need is a bike and a helmet, and you can start peddling. It is a good idea to have a few tools and a spare inner tube however, in case you get a puncture.
If you're new to cycling on roads, it is a good idea to stick to quiet routes until your confidence builds and you can take on busier roads, and as your fitness builds, longer journeys.
May be start out cycling to your local shops and then to work. Just think of what you can achieve in a small space of time.

What if I don't have time to cycle?

The great thing about cycling is that it fits in with your lifestyle. So if you cycle to work and the shops you are doing something very good for yourself. Not only that but as you are not impeded by traffic, or fitting in with timetables if you are travelling by train or bus, you will probably find you'll get to your destination just as fast, sometimes faster by bike. Unlike swimming, running, and going to aerobic classes or the gym, cycling has minimal impact on your free time.

Unconfident?

If you feel a little unsteady on a bike why not come on our cycling holiday for beginners on Mallorca ? The roads are traffic free and the temperatures in spring and fall are perfect for cycling. Our friendly team will help you become a better cyclist, teaching you the best techniques from the beginning. To learn more about how we can teach you to become a better cyclist, click here.

Source: Weight Loss Resources

submitted on 10/3/2015