Many people think that walking or jogging is the only way to exercise while enjoying the fresh air.
Yet, the health benefits of doing something like cycling are endless.
Cycling regularly can help improve physical fitness, ease stress (due to the rush of endorphins being released) and it’s also a great way to reduce your weight. Not to mention you’ll get to see some nice sights if you pick a scenic route.
If you’re having regular problems with arthritic knees or hips, a really stiff lower back, or even tightness in muscles (such as the Achilles or calves), then cycling is a great option. Even if you only do it for 30 minutes or so at a time.
Why is biking a good exercise for someone with arthritic knees or hips?
Because you’ll be reducing the impact of the hard surface that can easily damage vital joints. You’ll also be helping essential processes like the heart and the lungs to stay healthy.
Let me say this again.
You’ll feel so much healthier if you vary your exercise habits and fitness plans every week. It’s also important to remain alert of the impact that doing the same things day after day can have on your joints and muscles.
Bike riding is something that anyone in their 40’s, 50’s, and above should seriously consider. It’s even better than walking if your objective is to stay active and healthy.
Read this blog to find out about hip stiffness.
Do I have to ride further on a bike to get the same benefits as running?
Now, let’s bust a myth about bike riding. Many people think that to have the same positive impact on your health, like say going for a run, you have to do much more when riding a bike because it’s “easier”.
I’ve found this confusion to be one of the most common objections when I suggest people consider taking bike rides. It’s true that to get the endorphins, you’ll have to sit on your bike a bit longer than if you were just heading out for a run.
Keeping this in mind, here’s a fact when it comes to bike riding vs. running.
Someone who weighs approximately 200 lb will burn roughly 350 calories from riding for 30 minutes (with much less effort) than a typical 20-minute run, where that same person will be lucky to burn 190 (and the run will feel like… A LOT MORE WORK).
Although it might not seem that way, you’re working just as hard. Only, biking is much safer in terms of the reduced impact on your knees and hips. Just something to think about.
When the numbers stack up, you can see why more people aged 50+ are getting back on their bikes to keep healthy and feel and look great.
For more ways to ease your hip pain, check out our free report below:
Dr, Nick’s greatest passion is seeing his patients recover from injury and return to their activities that bring them joy.
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