Do you need to convince someone to ride a bike? Of course you do! If you've been riding regularly for years and have a group of similarly passionate friends, it's easy to forget that cycling isn't for everyone. However, if we want to convince someone to take up cycling and increase the number of cyclists (well, at least the number of users), it's worth having better arguments than "cycling is great." This post aims to both convince the unconvinced and help recruit new cyclists. So, it's a kind of meta-apologetics for cycling.
What are the benefits of cycling? It's healthy!
In reasonable conditions and quantities. This is, of course, a surefire way to build leg and glute muscles, but also improve overall fitness. Regular cycling increases lung capacity and improves heart function. It also reduces the risk of cardiovascular disease. Cycling lowers bad cholesterol (LDL) and triglyceride levels, a common problem recently associated with diet and a sedentary lifestyle.
The most noticeable effect is an improvement in well-being. Being active (especially outdoors) is a simple way to break free from lethargy and overcome concentration problems and lack of energy. For all of this to make sense, however, be sensible – cycling is healthy, but inhaling exhaust fumes is not. Therefore, choosing the right route is crucial. It's also worth warming up slowly. If you get into a training frenzy during the first few weeks, it's very easy to injure yourself or simply overexert yourself. It's also worth asking an experienced person to adjust your cycling posture – this way, you can be sure that riding will have a positive impact on your posture and be safe for your health. After all, you don't want to accidentally injure yourself, right?
Interestingly, I also came across information that cycling reduces the risk of several specific cancers, including breast cancer. This struck me as odd, because what does gingerbread have to do with a windmill? The answer is simple – it's not just cycling itself that's responsible, but the associated weight loss. So it's worth taking a closer look at this issue.
You can also lose excess weight
Cycling is a classic way to lose weight and shed unwanted body fat. Depending on the source and measurement method, it's estimated that an hour-long bike ride at a moderate pace burns around 400-700 calories. This roughly translates to losing less than a kilogram per week at a typical metabolism. Of course, there are many variables involved, but the results are certain, although don't expect dramatic gains. You'll start to feel the greater benefits of cycling after a few weeks. It's also crucial not to overexert yourself at the beginning and to properly adjust your bike. For obese individuals, cycling puts the knees at particular risk, so it's important to monitor their condition closely, paying attention to any pain or discomfort.
Cycling - financial effects
I've grown completely bored of hearing people whine about fuel prices, but that's probably because I fill up my car once every month or two and haven't noticed a difference. However, I know a few people who, due to the decreasing profitability of a car as a means of transportation, have switched to a shared bike or bicycle. Of course, not everyone can afford it, and it's not possible everywhere, and so on. However, the fact is that for distances of 5-15 kilometers, you can't beat a bicycle in terms of cost. And that's even with regular servicing or buying a decent bike specifically for that purpose. And even for longer distances, the difference in speed and fitness begin to matter more. Saving a four-figure sum a month is very nice. You can almost always find an optimal route where you don't get hit by trucks and don't have to weave your way through three-lane traffic. Time differences usually don't exceed 10 minutes. Cycling is worth it.
The biggest problem is the weather – I completely understand that cycling in snow and autumn rain borders on masochism for most people. I personally adhere to the simple principle of riding until the water freezes. Fortunately, switching to a bike isn't a declaration. You don't have to sign a contract about drinking soy lattes or burn out your car. Both modes of transportation can complement each other. And you might be surprised... by the time you save, especially in the city. Avoiding traffic jams and being able to choose your own pace is a true pleasure, after which dragging yourself behind the wheel seems like an attack on your personal freedom. At least it does to me.
The environmental benefits of cycling
Yes, I know that most of the pollution is caused by large corporations, tankers, airplanes, and the mayor of the capital defecating in the Vistula River. However, this doesn't change the fact that private cars also contribute. Especially at the local level of cities. I won't delve into abstract numbers here (because how can you imagine tons of CO2 and have a personal relationship with them?). The more bicycles used as a means of transportation, the less exhaust fumes and secondary air pollution from brake pads, tires, and other filth. The better the air in the city, and therefore the more enjoyable cycling. I'd like to see such chain effects. What's more, reducing the consumption of existing cars translates into less need for new ones.
And most importantly - cycling is great fun!
Now, let's move on to the highly subjective arguments. Cycling is enjoyable. Both everyday cycling and family outings, but also racing. It doesn't take much to instill the cycling bug in someone, and there's no shortage of disciplines and events. And there are plenty of people who ride. Because cycling is a wonderful way to meet new, often very different people who share a passion. Want more motivation for your training? I guarantee you'll find a local Facebook group organizing regular rides within minutes. Or maybe night rides around the city? There you go, you'll also see some interesting sights and learn some history. As if that weren't enough, every bike shop and repair shop is a small social hub for people of all levels of interest. Cycling truly brings people together! And unlike indoor sports, cycling allows you to travel, get around, and see the world. From the saddle, you can see a lot.
Leave a comment