Is Biking Good Cardio?
In the quest for the ultimate fat-scorching, calorie-burning cardio workouts, people have tried every type of exercise out there, from the typical treadmill run to sprinting up and down stairs. Many have considered bicycling at some point or another, but most aren’t aware of the excellent weight loss and general health benefits that biking can offer. Is biking good for cardio? The answer is a resounding yes, especially when compared to other types of cardio.
Biking for Cardio: The Benefits
Cardio is any type of exercise that gets your heart pumping and the adrenaline flowing, and biking definitely falls into this category: cycling at a moderate pace burns between 250 and 500 calories an hour for the average adult, which adds up very quickly. Still, burning a significant number of calories while biking requires that you approach the exercise with intensity: a leisurely bicycle ride around the park won’t burn as many calories as an intense biking session through a trail.
However, one of the main benefits of biking for cardio is that you can scale it to your fitness level. If you haven’t exercised in awhile and you’re unable to perform extended cardio sessions, you can lower the intensity of your bike rides by simply reducing your speed, and transition into more intense workouts as you progress. This scalability also means that you can ramp up the speed and get a very intense workout once you’re ready.
Biking is also good for cardio because it places very little strain on the bones and joints, unlike some other cardio exercises, namely running and jogging. Bicycling doesn’t place stress on delicate joints and tendons and it won’t cause shin splints; in addition, biking offers resistance training for the muscles of the legs, building those muscles and toning your legs as you become more experienced.
Biking for Cardio: Getting Started
You’ve decided that biking for cardio will be part of your weight loss plans. How do you get started? Of course, you’ll first need a bicycle. There are lots of different types, and you’ll want to choose the kind that’s right for you—a bike shop can help answer your questions and guide you in the right direction. Be sure to consider safety equipment such as goggles and a helmet; you’ll also want to keep a water bottle handy for hydration.
When you first start cycling for cardio, keep your routes short and stick to familiar areas. Your local neighborhood may have bike lanes alongside the road that you can use; you may also be able to find nature trails that offer good biking areas. Still, try to use paths and trails made specifically for cycling whenever possible to reduce the risk of injury. If it’s feasible for you to ride your bike to and from work or school, it can be a great way to establish a habit of getting some great exercise every day.
There’s no question that weight loss programs are aided by the inclusion of cardiovascular exercise, and biking definitely makes for a good cardio workout. It’s easier on your body than other types of cardio but can still burn lots of calories and, in many ways, can be more enjoyable than simply running on a treadmill.
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