SADDLE UP!
Writer and journalist Carrie Dunn talks to experts about why cycling is so good for our body and brain
The sun is shining, the birds are singing – yes! It’s the time to go outside and get active in the great outdoors.
But if you don’t fancy donning your running shoes, could cycling be your cup of tea?
No matter your age, it might be time to think about getting on your bike; by nature, cycling is a low impact activity, making it a great option for creaky knees as it’s less stress on your joints.
Cycling actually protects and strengthens all the structures around your muscles, tendons and ligaments, but doesn’t increase the wear and tear on your joints.
If you’re new to cycling, don’t panic!
You don’t need to purchase all the gear or a bike with the skinniest tyres to get started.
To help build your confidence, consider an entry-level mountain bike, “with big sturdy tyres and flat handlebars, or look at an e-bike with a step-through frame to allow for easy mounting,” Vitality partner Specialized recommends.
Once you’ve got your bike and your helmet, you’re pretty much good to go – and no matter your age or skill level, you can find a Specialized bike to suit you.
Mindful moments
Being out on a ride is the perfect chance to practise mindfulness – being in the moment and loving it. All you need to do is keep your feet pushing those pedals, and you have nothing else to think about, giving you a refreshing break from stressful everyday life.
It’ll also help keep your mind sharp, by fending off cognitive decline. Regular exercise can actually generate neurons in the brain, which could enhance your memory and even help you learn new skills (maybe it’s also time to sign up to an evening class!).
“The rhythmic motion of pedalling fosters mindfulness and relaxation, allowing the rider to clear their minds and find solace amidst the hustle and bustle of daily life,” says Phoebe Sneddon, Consultant Paediatric Doctor, and ambassador for Vitality partner, Specialized.
“Spending time outdoors and in nature is proven to enhance mood, mental clarity and focus.”
Don’t forget to have fun! There are social benefits to cycling, too. You can enjoy it with all the family – it’s a perfect day out for folk of all ages. “Cycling is a great activity to do if you wanted to catch up with friends,” says Vitality Coach Andrew Isaac, who suggests packing a picnic and exploring the roads, trails and forests near you. “It’s a family-oriented thing.”
You might even want to consider joining a cycle club and making new friends with like-minded people. A great network of family and friends around you is also sure to boost your mental wellbeing, so why not all grab your bikes together?
Sneddon adds: “By joining others on a ride, you can forge meaningful connections with like-minded enthusiasts. This can contribute to a sense of belonging and community, which is essential for overall wellbeing.”
“I get out on the bike as often as I can, whether that’s outside in the New Forest or across to the Purbecks, or inside on the turbo trainer and on Zwift when the weather prevents me from getting out,” says Chris.
Our partner Specialized asks: Could an e-bike be for you?
Watch below
Offers to get you moving
Vitality members with Silver status and above can get 25% off a bike or 15% off a Turbo e-Bike every 12 months with qualifying health and life insurance plans. If you purchase equipment, including gloves, shoes and saddles, along with your new bike, you can take 25% off that as well, or 15% off if you choose to buy later.*
*Applies to full priced items and online only. Excludes S-Works, Tarmac, Roubaix, Shiv, Status, Stumpjumper EVO, Turbo Levo (Carbon) or Turbo Tero bikes. Delivery is currently to mainland Great Britain, Northern Ireland and the Isle of Wight only. Pick up in store is not available. 25% off accessories applies when bought with the new bike, otherwise a 15% discount will apply. The e-Bike range extender battery and any CO2-based product are not included.
