Reasons to Cycle
To those already cycling frequently or have previously been a lover of riding, the benefits of doing so will be clear from experience. Some reasons may also seem quite obvious but anyone on the edge of whether they want to take up the hobby or not, read this blog and decide for yourself as we want to showcase and give credit for the many, many benefits of picking up your bike and letting your mind run (and cycle) free.
Cycling improves mental health
Cycling and walking both release our 'feel-good' hormones known as endorphins. These hormones help to relax your mind and make you feel happier. This boosts your mood and reduces your feelings of anxiety. Research shows that those who regularly cycle have a significantly lower risk of feeling stressed.A survey by Cycleplan, which aimed to understand the health benefits people experienced after taking up cycling, discovered that three-quarters of respondents noticed an improvement in their mental health.
Cycling helps you to lose weight
When it comes to losing weight, there is a simple equation, which is ‘calories out must exceed calories in’. So you need to burn more calories that you consume to lose weight. Assuming you do take up cycling, you’ll be burning calories, however we must mention to do this in a controlled way and make sure you always stay hydrated when you ride, and try not to focus on the scales.
Cycling helps build muscle
The resistance and power you need to use to cycle doesn’t mean you just burn fat, it also builds muscle - particularly around the glutes, hamstrings, quads, and calves.
Discovering New Surroundings
The National Cycle Network now covers 14,700 miles across the UK. The system of safe, traffic-free lanes and quiet, on- road routes connects every major city and passes within a mile of 55 per cent of UK homes, making it a great way to explore the area which you live in and a great way to take in nature.
Cycling saves Money
Apart from the initial cost of the bike (and there are plenty of inexpensive options, such as our lightweight Oliver Bikes) and its minimal running costs, cycling is free. Plus, you’re getting fit while going from A to B, saving money you may have spent on a gym membership, as well as cutting travel costs.
You can socialise and make friends within the cycling community
Cycling is an incredibly sociable sport. Joining a cycling club or group is an excellent way to grow your social circle, and if you're new to riding - you'll probably find all the maintenance and training advice you may have been looking for there, too. It’s also a great motivator and bonding activity the whole family can enjoy, while also encouraging less use of mind-numbing computer games.
It’s Planet Friendly
Easily for our brand and what we stand for, the matter of cycling being better for the environment is one of the most important reasons for cycling, and one that is extremely close to our heart. A study showed cycling produces zero carbon pollution, making it an environmentally sustainable form of transport. A bike can replace your car or the bus, especially for shorter journeys, and more cyclists means fewer congestion-related emissions. Add-ons like trailers and seats mean children can go green too. Our brand also add to this by only shipping our products in recycled cardboard and our complete bike being made from recycled materials. Even our tyres are made out of recycled rubber and our crisp eye-catching coloured frames being painted with the finest environmentally friendly dye.
With all these points being mentioned whether they appeal to you from an environmental, social or health standpoint, it’s clear that cycling
