7 Benefits of Biking for Better Health

Thinking of getting into cycling? Now is the perfect time! Based on a Social Weather Station survey, we now have up to 36% of Filipino households geared up for cycling regularly this 2024. And did you know a whopping 2.1 million bicycles came pouring into the Philippines back in 2020? No wonder we see cyclists virtually everywhere!

But there must be a good reason why this hobby took hold on us Filipinos, right? Well, you are on the right path, because we're discussing seven benefits that make cycling a good route towards sustainable health and wellness: 

Got some excess pounds to shed? Then get on a bike and pedal away! Through regular cycling, you can increase your metabolism and burn off calories significantly. When done in tandem with good nutrition, you’ll surely go far in your weight-loss goal! 

Obviously, cycling targets the legs, but you’d be surprised how involved other muscle groups get in maintaining your balance and momentum. This enables your muscles to get sturdier and more resilient, not to mention added joint and tendon protection.

You know how some people take long drives to unwind? The same goes for cycling but with the added benefit of exercise! It helps your body release endorphins, AKA the feel-good hormones, to boost your mood and help you protect yourself against bouts of depression and anxiety. So, next time you’re feeling down, don’t take a mental health drive, hop on a bike instead! 

You’re never too old or too young to take care of your heart and lungs—this is why cycling is for all ages! You can improve and strengthen your cardiopulmonary capacity, which lessens the risk of related illnesses and leads to more energy. 

Getting a grip on your cholesterol levels is a great byproduct of biking. Regular cycling helps maintain a healthy cholesterol balance, making sure the good ones get ahead of the bad ones. 

The things you do on the bike benefit how you move off it. Cycling improves your balance, posture, and motor coordination. As you stay consistent, your body will thank you as you grow older because of your habits that help prevent falls and fractures. 

With cycling, you can save your money and save the world at the same time! More than half of Filipinos choose cycling to cut back on their transportation costs, while 27% hop on their bikes to save on travel time. Luckily, the government sees this as a net good, passing Senate Bill 1698, or the Bicycle Act. This supports cyclists through the building of bicycle-related infrastructure—the sustainable solution towards lower pollution. 

Safety is a Two-Way Street 
 

We know it might be a tough ask, but being in harmony with other motorists is the only way to maximize these benefits. It's a give-and-take situation, so here are some things you can do as a cyclist to play your part in your—and everybody’s—road safety:

To get the hang of cycling, it is recommended that you practice three times a week for at least 30 minutes, even at moderate pedaling intensity. Remember that your fuel is a healthy, nutrient-rich diet and proper hydration—you won’t go far without these two.