Does Biking to Lose Weight Work?

Biking is one of the best ways to lose weight. You can do it solo or with family and friends. Cycle an hour each day and lose a pound a week.

Does Biking to Lose Weight Work?
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 A lot of people take up biking to lose weight. It is one of the best types of exercise there is. Not only is it great fun but anyone can do it by themselves or with friends and family. Losing weight by doing something you enjoy has to be the answer to weight loss blues and lack of motivation. You can cycle at whatever pace you want when and where you want. A slow amble on flat roads will burn about 500 calories an hour. The more energetic who ride faster can burn 600 calories in the same time. How fast you go is up to you. If your present diet is not increasing your weight over time and you cycle an hour a day you will lose at least 1 pound a week. This is safe weight loss and should not be thought of as too little and not worth the effort. Losing 12 pounds in 3 months certainly is worth doing and you will be increasing overall fitness as well. Biking to lose weight works.

What will biking achieve?

Burn calories. We have mentioned how biking to lose weight burns calories and is one of the best ways of doing so.

Improve fitness. Of course muscles of the legs are exercised, but you are also improving the muscles of the back and abdomen. Your metabolic rate will rise and your body will consume more fat.

Low impact. Over time jogging or brisk walking can have an effect on the joints. This is particularly apparent as we get older. Biking is a low impact activity, so by using your bike you are saving your joints.

Just do it. Most people are able to ride a bike, so there is no learning curve. You can just go out and do it.

We need to think a little before beginning biking to lose weight. Cyclists are vulnerable and none more so than family groups. Everybody should wear a helmet and make sure the strap is fastened. There is nothing more depressing than falling off a bike and seeing your helmet come off just before you hit the ground. If you expect to be biking in the evening or at night fit lights and use them. Learn the highway code and stick to it. You are a road user not a pedestrian on wheels. Be aware of traffic and never, ever, jump a red light. Take care and stay safe.

Of course exercise is only part of a healthy lifestyle. For the best results you will need to eat a healthy diet as well. Throw away the junk food in the fridge and eat fresh fruit, vegetables, wholemeal pasta, lean meat and oily fish like mackerel. There are plenty of recipes available in books or online which will turn these ingredients into an enjoyable diet. Getting fit does not have to be a chore, it can be an enjoyable solo or family activity and it all starts with biking to lose weight.

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ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Peter Stockwell is a writer specialising in health and fitness and author of the Senior Walking Fitness Blog.

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