Biking

Be active Model Healthy Choices

Bicycling for Physical Activity

Bicycling is a great way to be active and can have many health benefits.

Low-Impact

Bike riding is a good form of low-impact aerobic exercise. Aerobic exercise is any form of exercise that provides a steady increase of oxygen into the blood stream. For anyone with joint problems, bicycling is a great way to get exercise, without the impact of running.

Sleep More Deeply

Stanford University School of Medicine researchers asked sedentary insomnia sufferers to cycle for 20 to 30 minutes every other day. The time required for the insomniacs to fall asleep was reduced by half, and sleep time increased by almost an hour.

Look Younger

Scientists at Stanford University have found that cycling regularly can protect your skin against the harmful effects of UV radiation and reduce the signs of ageing.

Increase Your Brain Power

Researchers have found that a five % improvement in cardio-respiratory fitness from cycling led to an improvement of up to 15% in mental tests. That’s because cycling helps build new brain cells in the hippocampus - the region responsible for memory, which deteriorates from the age of 30.

Beat Illness

Moderate exercise makes immune cells more active, so they’re ready to fight off infection.

Live Longer

Those who exercise regularly are at significantly lower risk of cardiovascular disease, type two diabetes, all types of cancer, high blood pressure and obesity.

Heal Your Heart

Studies have shown that regular cycling can cut your risk of heart disease by 50%.

Be Happy

Even if you’re miserable when you saddle up, cranking through the miles will lift your spirits. Any mild-to-moderate exercise releases natural feel-good endorphins that help counter stress and make you happy.

Bicycling for Transportation

Many people use their bicycles as a form of transportation. It is vastly cheaper than driving. Adults can choose to ride their bicycles to an from work as a way to increase their daily physical activity while saving money on gas and maintenance of a vehicle.

There are many benefits of using your bicycle as a form of transportation.

  • It's a free gym on wheels.
  • On average, bicycle commuters lose 13 pounds in their first year of cycling alone.
  • Fresh air does a body good. You inhale more harmful exhaust in your car than on a bike.
  • You'll never have to worry about a parking spot again, but be sure to invest in a sturdy bike lock!

Children may ride their bicycles to and from school or their friend's house. Cayuga County Health Department has a grant called, the Bike, Pedestrian and Wheelsport Safety Program, funded through New York State Governor's Traffic Safety Committee. If your child is in need a bicycle helmet, give us a call at 315-253-1560.