Is Cycling Good for Weight Loss?
If you are looking to lose weight and also love cycling, you might wonder if it is the right physical activity to help you reach your goal. In this article, we explore how cycling can support weight loss and give you some tips on how to go ahead with this popular exercise.
Is Cycling Good for Weight Loss?
Yes, cycling is good for weight loss. To lose weight, you will have to burn more calories than you consume. In order to achieve this balance, you either have to increase the number of calories you burn or reduce the number of calories you consume or both. Cycling can help you achieve the former.
Why is Cycling Good for Weight Loss?
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It burns calories. As we have mentioned above, cycling is a demanding physical activity that increases how many calories you burn. Cycling at a moderate speed can burn up to 300 calories per hour which can cause a significant dent in your calorie output.
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It can fit into your lifestyle. Unlike many other forms of exercise like jumping rope and sprinting, cycling can easily fit into your day without having to dedicate time for it. You may choose to cycle on your daily commute to work or when running your errands. This can be a wonderful solution for those who don’t have enough time to set aside for exercise but still want to lose weight.
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You can cycle indoors and outdoors. If the weather doesn’t agree with your cycling plans or you simply don’t want to step out of the comfort of your house, you can still get your cycling fix inside your home. It is as simple as acquiring a good quality indoor bike. A good indoor bike also has the advantage of bonus features like a calorie counter, speedometer, and heart rate monitor.
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It is suitable for those with tender joints. Cycling is very easy on your joints which makes it ideal for you if you have joint issues like arthritis or an injury. In fact, cycling is often recommended by doctors and other health professionals as the exercise of choice for patients with mobility issues.
Health Benefits of Cycling
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Weight loss. Being a physical activity, cycling can lead to weight loss especially if paired with a healthy weight loss meal plan. Better yet, cycling can support long term weight loss if you find a way to incorporate it into your daily schedule.
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Heart health. Cycling, like many aerobic exercises, improves heart health by protecting you from cardiovascular diseases like high blood pressure and atherosclerosis.
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Mental health. Cycling can also have a positive impact on your mental well-being by encouraging you to spend time outdoors. Cycling may also directly improve your mental health by stimulating the release of feel good chemicals like dopamine.
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Muscle tone and strength. Cycling can boost muscle strength by stimulating the building of more muscle tissue in your legs. This not only helps you achieve a more toned appearance but also gives your legs more strength to perform other activities like running or climbing the stairs.
Tips to Lose Weight By Cycling
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Get a good bike. To enjoy your cycling journey, invest in a good quality bike that is suitable for your size and frame. A good quality bike will also be more durable which is essential since you will use it outdoors regularly. The same applies for indoor bikes even though they are rarely used outdoors.
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Get the right gear. You should also invest in high quality gear like shoes and clothing to get the most out of your biking experience.
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Switch up your routine. To prevent yourself from getting bored, make changes to your cycling routine regularly. You can choose to vary the intensity, the route or the duration of cycling, whatever rocks your boat.
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Find a cycling partner. Studies show that you are more likely to see something through if you are accountable to someone. If you can’t convince anyone to join you on your quest, consider joining a local cycling club for company.
FAQs
Can I lose belly fat by cycling?
Yes, you can lose belly fat by cycling. This is because cycling burns calories which can result in fat loss. Furthermore, cycling improves core strength which can give your belly a more toned appearance.
How much should I cycle a day to lose weight?
If you are cycling at a moderate intensity, aim for about an hour of cycling per day. However, if you are just starting out, start with smaller time frames and your way up to longer times and higher intensities.
Is it better to cycle or run?
Both exercises have their advantages and disadvantages. What’s best will differ from person to person depending on their preferences.
How much weight can I lose cycling 1 hour a day?
You will lose about 1 lb of fat a week cycling 1 hour a day at a moderate intensity.
