Since we have been self-quarantined or under lockdown, we have taken to taking care of our health and diet quite significantly. Right from keeping a check on what we eat to how we can conquer our fitness goals, many of us have drastically changed our lifestyle. We have tried on various home workouts and exercise regimes, fitness routines to see what works best for our body mentally and physically.  

While you are at it, did you know something as simple as cycling can be highly beneficial for you? Given the current situation, it is recommended you stay home as much as you can. But, if your place of residence and the area surrounding it is not under a lockdown or there are no restrictions on movement, you can take up cycling if you have not already! There are various benefits to cycling, especially for women who not only want to look good but also feel good. Before we get into it, know that you should always cover your mouth and nose with a mask whenever you go outside and maintain social distancing. Yes, even when you are cycling. Also, do take breaks, hydrate in between, and do not exceed cycling for more than 15-30 minutes. 

• It is Good for Your Heart.

Cycling is a great way to maintain cardiovascular fitness. It can reduce your risk of heart disease. It helps improve blood circulation. When you reach a particular heart rate and have a controlled breathing pattern, cycling works on your whole body. It helps you to lower your blood pressure and cholesterol. 

• It Can protect you Against Breast Cancer 

Studies show that physically active women have a lower risk of breast cancer compared to inactive women. Studies show that women who are physically active all through their post-menopausal phase might also have a lower risk of breast cancer. 

• Encourages supplementing Vitamin D

If you choose to bike outside early in the morning, you will be letting your body soak in the sun. The sun is a natural source of Vitamin D. It helps in improving resistance against various diseases. Lower Vitamin D levels can also be a result of a significantly low mood. So, if you want to lift your spirits, go out there and get some sun!

‍

• Great for Your Immunity 

Research shows that physical exercise can cause changes in your antibodies and white blood cells. The rise in temperature after exercising can give rise to body temperature, which may help in preventing unwanted bacteria. A quick bike ride can help fight infection and keeps your immunity active. Your body must maintain or strengthen its immune system during such a time.

‍

• Strengthens your muscles.  

Cycling exercises all four of your limbs. It strengthens your calves as you peddle. It also works on your hips and thighs as it tones your muscles. If you wish to get into your desired shape, cycling is the best way to tone your body as it works on your body fat each time you peddle your way down the road. As you need to keep your hands on the handlebars at all times, you might not realize it, but your arms also get to workout while you’re at it. You will be using various other muscles such as your core, shoulders, back, and your heart too. 

• It Helps in Building Endurance 

As you enjoy your bike ride, even leisurely, you wouldn’t know it, but your body gains endurance without any strenuous training! It increases your lung capacity, not to mention it also works on your cardiovascular fitness by strengthening your heart. 

• Fights off insomnia 

Your daily routine has been around staying at home for the most part, and even though you may feel mentally tired, your body needs to feel equally tired to have a good night’s sleep. For a completely healthy lifestyle, it is necessary to get enough rest. As there is almost no rigorous movement daily, cycling can help your body to fall asleep faster and increase your sleep time by nearly an hour. It helps you to rest your mind as well as your body, making you wake up with a fresh mindset.

• Improves digestion 

Cycling can help reduce the amount of time taken for food to move through your digestive system. The accelerated breathing and increased heart rate that you achieve during a bike ride can enable your intestinal muscles to contract, thereby preventing bloating. 

Cycling is not only a great way to workout, but it is also a lot of fun than merely walking for a few minutes. It boosts your mood. It releases adrenaline and endorphins in your body that improves your confidence and makes you feel happy. Make sure you have the right riding gear.

Here are a few things you should carry with you while cycling:

• A neon gilet and reflectors, for visibility, 
• Cycling shorts and t-shirts, for ventilation and breathability. Dry-fit t-shirts help to soak in the sweat. Avoid wearing cotton
• A water bottle to hydrate as and when required. If it gets too heavy, you could always attach a water bottle holder to your cycle.
• A sports watch, to keep a check on your heart rate and time your ride.
• A bicycle helmet, to protect your head
• Breathable mask. We highly recommend a mask with an expiratory valve.

Now all you have to do is ride away into your favorite terrain, wearing safety equipment, of course, and have fun!