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• Thursday, June 18, 2020
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Seniors often have a difficult time finding just the right exercise. The goal being to find one that keeps them healthy yet at the same time, that is not likely to cause an injury. With this in mind, numerous studies have concluded that cycling is the perfect exercise for seniors. This post looks at the top 5 benefits of senior cycling and how to stay safe while you cycle. Biking is low impact: As we age, our bones become more and more fragile. Commonly recommended exercises for seniors, like jogging, for example, are high impact and can damage muscles and bones over time. This is not the case with cycling. When you cycle, the circular movements propel your body forward without the shock and strain of high impact exercises which requires that you run, jump, etc. In short, cycling is less stressful on aging bones. Senior bike riding aids weight loss: As we age, our metabolism slows down. This makes it difficult to lose weight and as we know this is essential to good health. Cycling is a great way to shed those hard to lose pounds. Senior cycling promotes mental health: The old saying goes “A man should pray for a healthy mind in a healthy body.” Cycling can aid individuals in battling the symptoms of depression, anxiety, or high stress as it impacts the release of serotonin and dopamine chemicals that make us free, content, and relaxed. Senior bike riding helps to reduce the risk of cancer: One of the major contributors of cancer in all people is obesity. In fact, obesity has overtaken smoking as a leading cause of cancer. Cycling is fun: Many older people feel isolated at times. Seniors who bike can meet other like-minded seniors and take in nature at the same time. In other words, cycling is just plain fun. Quick Tips for Cycling Seniors Of course, you want to remain safe while you cycle. These tips will help you accomplish this goal. Get a pre-ride check-up Choose an ergonomic bike Wear a helmet Complement cycling with other forms of exercise Allow extra time to recover after a cycling workout/trip. Senior bike riding is perfectly safe and has many health benefits. It will help you lose weight, stay strong, avoid chronic illness, stay mentally alert and live a longer, healthier life. As long as you take the proper precautions there is no reason you should not partake in this wonderful sport/pastime. One interesting way you can work biking into your exercise regime is with one of our bike tour vacations or with our Greece adventure tours. We welcome all kinds of cyclists.