Weight loss through
Cycling
by Dorian Jones, Dietician
Try Cycling to Reach Your Weight Loss Goals
We are nearing the end of 2006, and in a few of months,
many will be making the promise to go down a dress size
or two, eat less and exercise more. Whether it is for
health reasons or for the sake of looking good, it is
the desire of over 60% of the American population to
lose weight. It is common knowledge that in order to
achieve this hefty goal, changes must be made to diet as
well as physical activity. When it comes to exercise,
the choices are endless. Aerobics is one of the more
popular activities for those that want to lose extra
pounds. There is low-impact, which includes step
aerobics, high-impact, and water. Some will opt to join
a pilates or yoga class to get firm. Others will stick
to running or walking. And then there’s riding a bike. I
know some of you may not have sat on a bicycle seat
since you were in junior-high, but in addition to
transportation and having fun, cycling is one of the
most effective weight loss activities there is, and it
carries great benefits for those who want to get fit.
Cycling on a regular basis will:
• Strengthen your heart: Your heart is a muscle,
and it needs to be worked to get stronger like any other
muscle in your body. Whether you are pumping up a hill
or pedaling on flat land, cycling improves your
cardiovascular health by forcing your heart to pump a
little harder and faster. Your whole body eventually
benefits because of the increased circulation of blood
to your organs.
• Burn excess fat and calories: Riding your bike
will definitely help you burn some fat as well as extra
calories. Of course, this depends on how long you ride
your bike and how intense your cycle routine is.
However, a little bit goes a long way if you are
consistent.
• Gain muscle: Thought about lifting weights? How
about your own body weight? When you cycle, you are
supporting your own weight. The constant motion of
pedaling your own weight helps build and strengthen lean
muscle, which in turn helps the calorie burning effect
even after you stop pedaling. Regular workouts are an
important component to getting fit and staying fit.
However, it is wise to seek the opinion of your doctor
before you attempt any exercise routine. She can tell
you if there are any restrictions to your workout. So,
if you have to start out at a slow pace and a do short
distance, do not be discouraged. You are at the
beginning of your journey to good health which is bound
to reward you endlessly.
|
Dorian Jones,
Dietician |
