The Benefits of Switching to Cycling
After sustaining a few injuries, I took a short break to rest up, recover, and did some research on what went wrong. I realized that I wasn’t pacing myself and the idea of slowing down was not always a hindrance to progress.
So starting back, I continued my weekly strength training sessions, but for cardio… I wanted a change. After giving it some thought, I got a bike and started exploring the outdoors. Over a year later, I’m still at and here's why:
#1- It’s the ultimate mental mini-getaway.
As a mom of five, I consider cycling as a morning, midday, or evening escape. I think of it as a mini getaway that I can always fit into my week. If I’m not road biking, I’ll plug into a podcast or zone out with my latest music playlist. However, silence is often the thing I’m after. It’s the perfect mental reset. It gives me space to think about personal growth and goals, ways to help and cherish friends and loved ones, or anything else that is good and lovely (no negativity allowed in this space!). The fact that I’m getting exercise at the same time is a win.
#2- It’s a shift to the outdoors.
A large portion of our time is spent indoors, a trend that only seems to be growing. Whether it’s due to remote work, online shopping, or exercising at a gym. This has become our new normal. However, stepping outside is incredibly beneficial. Research shows that spending time outdoors can have a positive impact on mental health and overall well-being; lifting our mood. Getting a dose of Vitamin D from the sun is an added bonus since low levels have been associated with lower mood. This is why Vitamin D is often called the “happy vitamin.”
#3 – It’s great for cardio health and building endurance.
Find it a challenge to fit in your weekly workout sessions? Cycling is an excellent option for beginners and experts alike. You don’t need to be familiar with the latest gym equipment, and since riding a bike is something most of us already know how to do, you can start pedaling right away. It’s a great way to meet your weekly exercise goals or close those activity rings on your smartwatch. Personally, I aim for 2-3 rides per week.
“You are one ride away from a good mood.” – Sarah Bentley, British Cyclist
#4 – It’s easy on the body.
After putting a lot of strain on my knees in my twenties, I realize that trying to consistently run like Forrest Gump just isn’t sustainable for me. Transitioning to cycling enables me to enjoy a comparable feeling of freedom without the need for prolonged recovery time after workouts. Cycling is frequently suggested as a great low-impact workout that is kinder to the joints, both during injury recovery and over the long term.
#5 – Your pace, your timing.
As I entered my 30s, my body became more sensitive to stress. In short, I could definitely do without all the extra… fill-in-the-blank. While fitness classes did offer that extra push to grind through workout sessions, they also brought additional stress- including the pressure to arrive on time after a hectic day and not lag behind others in the class. Again, this was great for a time but was no longer working for my lifestyle. Cycling provides a great alternative to group fitness since it was at my own pace in my own timing. You can amp up your speed and mileage over time. Using cycling apps or riding with a friend can provide that extra motivation as needed.
Why not give it a go? You might discover a new hobby you enjoy as well.
Make sure to read my post on tips for beginners before embarking on your first journey!
Whatever you do, just keep moving!
Be well,
Mikki
