If you want to lose some weight to improve your health, get fitter and simply look and feel better about yourself, then cycling just might be the thing you’ve been looking for. Here is how to lose some weight by hitting the pedals. Take a look.
Why choose cycling?
Even though running is the queen of fat-loss exercises, it can bring many health problems with it. Running is a very high-impact activity and it greatly affects your knees, ankles and feet. The risk of injury is high and it gets higher the more you weigh. Unlike running, cycling is low-impact. It burns calories and builds muscles. Commuting on a bike can save you time and money, and pedaling with your friends is a great way to spend some quality time with them. You can also do some high intensity trainings on a bike to speed up the process of weight-loss. There are so many reasons to start spinning those pedals, so just do it.
How fast should I go?
If you’ve just recently decided to lose some weight, you might want to take it slowly. Don’t bother yourself with a watch or speedometer, just relax and enjoy being active. When you get in shape a bit, you can start thinking about what you’re doing. You can mix fat burning rides and HIIT sessions for some variety. Fat burning rides are slow and long and they’re good for endurance and fat burning. On the other hand, HIIT is all about short but explosive pedaling intervals. Experts recommend doing HIIT sessions, because they make your body burn calories and build muscles long after you get off the bike.
Gather your friends
Cycling is a social activity, and the best thing you can do for your fat-loss is get a cycling buddy, so you can keep each other on track. You can also join a group if you’re a beginner, or a more serious cycling organization as you get more experienced and fit. If you want to cycle alone and get some peace of mind, that’s fine too. The important thing is that you feel comfortable and motivated to do your best each day.
Gear up!
If you choose to cycle outside, first you’ll need the right bike. Think of the terrain you’ll be cycling on and then choose an appropriate bicycle style. Road bicycles are for riding on paved surfaces, are light and suitable for long rides. If you want to take it to the hills, get a mountain bike. They have wide tires and are perfect for rough terrains. You can also get some cycling clothes, like padded shorts for extra comfort and lycra to keep you warm and dry.
When to cycle?
The most practical way to start cycling is commuting by bicycle. Many people from big cities such as Sydney choose to do so, because it not only keeps you fit, but it saves time and money. And because Sydney is hilly, cyclists often choose electric bikes to help them out with steep climbs. You can find many types and models of electric bikes and choose one that suits your needs. If commuting isn’t practical for you, the best time to do your cycling is in the morning. Experts advise pedaling before breakfast on an empty stomach. That way you can burn up to 1,100 calories a week, and greatly accelerate weight loss.
What about my diet?
If you want to lose some weight and not only improve your fitness, your diet will be very important. Eat balanced and healthy, keep hydrated, and be moderate. Avoid fatty snacks and empty calories and soon you’ll start seeing the first results.
What are you waiting for? Hop on your bike and start pedaling towards your new, healthy and hot body.
About the Author:
Diana Smith is a full time mom of two beautiful girls interested in topics related to home improvement, DIY and interior design. In her free time she enjoys reading and preparing healthy meals for her family.
Twitter: https://twitter.com/DianaSmith82;
E-mail: dianasmith.dany@gmail.com; G+: https://plus.google.com/u/0/116091795770131287107/posts
Biking is truly getting more popular and I enjoy it. I want to do more of it though.
Someone after my own heart. My highlight every morning is being able to bike to work or the gym. On a sunny day, nothing beats it!