While pink kits and hair flowing from the backside of a helmet may be widespread in specific cities, this is not the case throughout most of the country. Indeed, a 2009 National Household Travel Survey discovered that women accounted for only 24% of all bicycle rides taken in the United States. Compared to other nations, such as Germany, where 49 per cent of cyclists are female, it becomes evident that, though cycling’s popularity has grown whether doing it outdoor or doing stationary cycling at home, we still have a long way to go until men and women share the road equally.
Advantages of Cycling
Cycling is one of the most satisfying activities women can participate in—regardless of their age or degree of activity. Here are some reasons why viewing the world from behind two handlebars may be beneficial to your health.
1. It’s beneficial to your heart
According to the British Heart Foundation research, riding just 20 kilometre a week can cut your risk of heart disease in half. You may get 20 miles of weekly two-wheeled travel by just cycling to and from some of your routine errands or by commuting to work once or twice a week.
2. It’s beneficial to your brain
A University of Illinois research discovered that increasing cardio-respiratory fitness by just 5% resulted in a 15% increase in mental test results. The secret is in the increase in blood flow to the brain that cycling generates. Additionally, this blood flow may be important for slowing cognitive decline and lowering the likelihood of developing dementia and Alzheimer’s disease. Taking a ride can also help you overcome mental blocks—studies suggest that this increased oxygenation stimulates the brain, stimulating the neurons responsible for creativity and problem-solving.
3. Appear Younger
According to Stanford University research, frequent cycling can protect your skin from UV radiation and possibly help you seem younger. Again, this is due to the intense oxygen flow provided to skin cells and nutrients, assisting in the removal of dangerous pollutants. Exercise can also help your body produce more collagen, which helps decrease fine wrinkles.
4. Improved Sleep
Nothing is more beneficial to long-term health than getting enough sleep at night, and studies have shown that going out on two wheels many times a week is an excellent method to acquire that essential slumber. A Stanford University research revealed that cycling for 20 to 30 minutes every other day reduced the time required for participants to fall asleep by half. Additionally, individuals reported sleeping an additional hour.
5. Boost Immunity
Taking an outdoor bike and inhaling the fresh air might help you avoid the doctor’s office. According to University of North Carolina studies, those who bike for 30 minutes five days a week use half the amount of sick days as those who do not. The study revealed that moderate exercise helps maintain the activity of immune cells, preparing them to combat infections more effectively.
6. Pregnant in a healthy state
Doctors formerly counselled avoiding exercising during pregnancy, but they now understand better. Regular exercise not only helps you avoid gaining too much pregnancy weight, but studies suggest that it also results in an easier, less complicated childbirth and a quicker recovery after that. Regular exercise also benefits in-utero brain development and reduces your child’s risk of being fat by half.
However, if you want to ride beyond your first trimester, keep in mind that your centre of gravity may change, making it more difficult to balance securely on a road bike. Fortunately, bringing your bicycle indoors is a simple solution.
7. Two-wheeled female empowerment
Of all the health and fashion reasons to get out on two wheels, empowerment is undoubtedly the most compelling. Coming in from a bike with a flushed face and a buzzing head is certainly one of the nicest ways to begin the day. The strength you receive by riding regularly will transfer to every other aspect of your life, from business to family and friendships. And, ultimately, the sensation you get when you pass a man on your bike is worth every dime.
