There’s nothing quite like the feeling of getting out on your bike – whether you’re cruising through the Rutland countryside or tackling the hills around Witham. But beyond that brilliant sense of freedom, cycling’s doing amazing things for your body and mind that you might not even realise.
Boosts Your Physical Health
Regular cycling strengthens your heart, lungs and circulation which significantly reduces your risk of cardiovascular diseases. The beauty of cycling is that it’s a low impact exercise, meaning it’s much easier on your joints than running whilst still giving you a proper aerobic workout. You’ll burn around 300 calories per hour at a steady pace and if you throw in some sprint intervals, you can boost your metabolism even whilst you’re resting.
Works Wonders for Mental Wellbeing
Here’s something all our riders have experienced first hand on countless rides around Stamford – cycling absolutely lifts your spirits. The combination of physical exercise, fresh air and being outdoors triggers those lovely endorphins that make you feel brilliant. Research shows people with physically active lifestyles have a wellbeing score 32% higher than inactive folks.
Cycling helps reduce stress, anxiety and depression by giving you something to focus on – whether that’s your cadence, the road ahead, or just enjoying the scenery near Rutland Water. Studies have shown that just 10 minutes on the bike can improve your ability to think and boost feelings of wellbeing.
Strengthens Your Body
You’re not just working your legs when you’re cycling – though your quads, hamstrings and calves certainly get a brilliant workout. Cycling improves your core strength, balance, posture and coordination because you’ve got to maintain position whilst riding. Over time, this increased flexibility and strength helps prevent falls and fractures, making it ideal if you have osteoarthritis.
Your cardiovascular system gets stronger too, with your heart and lungs working more efficiently so you can do more exercise with less effort. Regular cycling strengthens heart muscles, lowers your resting pulse and reduces blood fat levels.
Practical Benefits You’ll Love
Beyond the health perks, cycling just makes sense for shorter journeys around Stamford. You’ll often get where you’re going quicker than by car – no traffic jams, no waiting for buses and you can park right outside. Plus, it’s completely free once you’ve got your bike and you’re doing your bit for the environment whilst getting fitter.
Starting your day with a morning ride wakes you up, boosts your circulation and gives you a sense of accomplishment that sets you up brilliantly for the day ahead. Research suggests this helps casual cyclists make more positive choices throughout the day.
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