While there are numerous publications on the benefits of cycling, one in particular may be the impetus to begin this fantastic form of exercise. Did you know that cycling can slow down the aging process while also revitalizing the immune system? It is believed to preserve muscular mass and strength with age while keeping body fat and cholesterol levels steady. So, if you’re seeking for an anti-aging miracle, this could be it! And if you’re a frequent cyclist, you’ll be relieved to know it’s working wonders for you. So, let’s answer Does cycling slow aging?
Does cycling slow aging?
Yes, cycling does slow aging. A study was conducted on 125 amateur cyclists aged 55 to 79, and the results were compared to healthy individuals who did not cycle regularly. What they discovered was that the Thymus organ, which produces immune cells known as T-cells, decreases after adolescence, yet the Thymus organ may still be seen in older bikers. Cells in older bikers were producing just as many as those in younger people. As a result, cycling actually slows aging.
This happens when bikers strain their cardiovascular systems harder, which helps to counteract the degeneration caused by not exercising and being less active. Not only does frequent cycling prevent ageing, there are other health benefits which was revealed in a study released by BMJ that shown regular “cycling cut the risk of mortality from all causes by more than 40%, and cut the risk of cancer and heart disease by 45%”.
Those benefits should be enough to convince you to start cycling, but if you can’t find the drive, you might be interested to know that biking can also improve your mental health and wellness. Evidence revealed that those who cycled to work instead of driving or taking public transportation were happier than those who did not.
Other benefits of cycling
Putting it all together in a list makes me wonder why I didn’t start cycling sooner! These are the primary advantages of cycling:
- Reduces aging by increasing the production of t-cells in the body; improves the cardiovascular system
- 45% lowers the risk of cancer and cardiac disease
- Reduces the likelihood of death by 40%
- Improves your mental health and makes you happier
- Lowers body fat and cholesterol.
- Muscle mass and strength are preserved.
- Eco-friendly and contributes to plant sustainability – lower carbon emissions
Personally, you may not want to or be able to commute to work every day; for example, some people do not have access to a bike, the time, or other factors. If this describes you, don’t panic; you may try other forms of riding, such as spinning, which takes place in an indoor cycling studio or the gym, so you don’t have to buy your own spin bike; you can simply borrow theirs.
A spin class can provide you with the same amount of health benefits that can substantially improve your fitness levels. The great thing about a spin class is that it is a low impact workout that does not put too much strain on your joints like higher impact workouts like running do. This means it’s a highly useful workout for people of all ages, as well as a safer option that may provide you with the same benefits as an HIIT session.
If you never cycle once in your life, why don’t get a start with How long should a beginner bike ride?