If you are one of those who would rather ride a bike to work than dread the long hours of rush hour traffic, then good for you. Did you know that the average driver spends 96 hours of wasted time in traffic jams?
Many schools and businesses in the UK install cycle shelters for those who have bikes. Kensington Systems Ltd agrees that when you ride your bike to work, you can skip the traffic and gain several health benefits.
Here are three of them:
Develops Full Body Strength
Instead of paying your monthly gym fees, riding a bike to work is your instant full body workout. Your legs, particularly your quads, glutes and hamstrings will thank you for toning them. You likewise get to increase your balance and stability. You tighten your core and strengthen your lower back. The best part is that you come to work on time and shed off some extra pounds at the same time.
Promotes Cardiovascular Health
Cycling has been proven to boost your heart health and lower your risks of getting a cardiovascular disease by 50%. This is because the activity increases your heart rate, which then improves blood flow to your body. This, in turn, strengthens the heart, as well as reduces blood fat levels and helps avoid stroke, high blood pressure and cardiac arrest.
Better Stamina
Better heart health improves your body's overall performance. Cycling is likewise an endurance exercise that does not induce too much stress on the muscles and the joints. Over time, you gain more energy, which results in an improved mood and increased productivity.
Exercise, in general, reduces stress. Cycling stimulates the release of feel good hormones that improve your mood. So, the rhythmic pedalling and the magnificent views of the outdoors are also effective at relaxing your brain.
