Cycling is a lot more powerful than people think. Sure enough, we know that cycling makes you lose weight and maintain an ideal body shape, but it does so much more to our body than just that. In fact, regular cycling can actively change how we see ourselves, how we treat other people, and how we perceive our bodies.

In this blog, we'll try to understand the exact changes cycling can make to our bodies. This way, we can understand why we should include cycling as one of our regular activities.

1. Cycling makes you lose weight.

Cycling regularly and going on long-distance rides can significantly help you lose weight. According to Harvard Research, a 155-pound person can burn at least 298 calories in a 30-minute bike ride, while other researchers suggest that people who tend to cycle every day for at least an hour can lose more than 1 kilo a week. 

While losing weight at this incredible speed is very enticing, remember not to strain yourself too much. Overexertion in cycling can make you gain more weight due to cortisol production–a hormone released by your body when placed under extreme pressure. Because of cortisol, your body stores as much carbohydrates and glycogen as possible, making you gain weight.

To avoid gaining more weight and to track your weight loss progress, it's best to get a smartphone cycling app that allows you to keep track of your cycling habits regularly. This way, you'd know how to pace yourself properly following your weight goals.

2. Cycling lowers your cholesterol.

Lowering cholesterol is essential, especially for people with cardiovascular health problems such as stroke, hypertension, and other heart diseases.

Studies show that both indoor and outdoor cycling can improve your cardiovascular health. It increases your high-density lipoprotein or good cholesterol while decreasing your low-density lipoprotein or bad cholesterol.

The most common cycling routine to reduce cholesterol levels is at least 150-300 minutes of moderate-intensity cycling or 75-150 minutes of high-intensity cycling per week. This routine will ensure you get the benefits of lowering your cholesterol without overexerting yourself and making your body more vulnerable to cardiovascular diseases.

3. Cycling makes you less prone to some medical conditions.

Regular cycling significantly improves your body's endurance, strength, and immune system, making you less prone to other medical conditions. This includes diabetes, obesity, and arthritis.

Some researches reveal that cycling can lower the mortality rate by up to 24-35%, making it one of the best exercise routines. 

However, it's worth noting that while cycling makes you less vulnerable to diseases, it makes you prone to accidents. This is why keeping yourself safe on the road is also essential. For starters, getting protective cycling accessories such as a helmet, bicycle lights, and GPS trackers could be your best option.

4. Cycling makes you happier.

Cycling makes your body release serotonin, dopamine, and endorphin, also known as the happy hormones. Whenever you're feeling a little stressed, anxious, or depressed, hop onto your bike and ride for at least 10 minutes, and you will experience a significant improvement in your mood.

Aside from these physiological benefits of cycling that make you happier, experts suggest that connecting with other people and nature through cycling can also uplift a person's mood. So if your goal is to really perk up your mood, it's best to ride with friends. To make your group cycling more enjoyable, you can also get a smart bike light with a group synchronization feature that allows your devices to connect on the road.

5. Cycling makes you smarter.

Improved blood flow in the brain improves its function as it receives more oxygen and nutrients. This is why cyclists are better at critical, innovative, and creative thinking.

Just like driving, cycling also improves your strategic thinking, as you constantly make road decisions. One mistake can get you into a road accident, so it's crucial to have safety cycling accessories.

6. Cycling helps people with cancer.

If you're recovering from cancer, cycling can be the best regular physical activity for you. Experts suggest that staying active can reduce the side effects of cancer treatment, such as the feeling of being lethargic. 

However, remember to consult with your doctor first before getting into a cycling routine. As much as possible, ask for a cycling routine that would be best for you so you'd know how to create low-intensity training and pace yourself according to your treatment.

7. Cycling is easier to maintain. 

Going to the gym and maintaining a workout routine can be challenging, especially for beginners. Cycling tends to be more dynamic and interactive, which makes it more enjoyable.

You can cycle to work if you can't squeeze a regular cycling routine into your schedule. Not only does it make you maintain physical activity, but it can also help you save money. 

On the other hand, if regular exercise tends to bore you, you can do long-distance cycling. The new sceneries, matched with the refreshing breeze and the sun's warmth, would make you want to cycle more. If you'd be going into long-distance rides, get a GPS tracker that allows you to navigate any roads and terrain in the most convenient way possible. 

Treat your body better this year by cycling regularly.

Cycling can bring numerous positive changes to your body. So if you want a healthier everyday routine, cycling could be the best option. Just make sure to keep yourself safe and protected on the road as you start a regular cycling routine.