Staying active does not only work wonders for your physical health, but it also provides benefits for your mental well-being. Any form of exercise can help keep your body and brain in top condition — and cycling is no exception.
When it comes to health benefits, cycling provides a substantial variety for both those who are mentally capable and those struggling with mental health concerns. Although its physical pluses are well-documented, the emotional benefits of cycling are under-publicized.
We all have different reasons to start cycling. In the world we live in, many of us are looking for ways to take a break from the stresses of life and lose ourselves in a peaceful environment where we can relax our minds and unwind.
This then begs the question, “Is cycling good for mental health?” — Absolutely! Whether it’s to get fit, train for a competition, or engage socially, cycling is a great way to keep your mind and body in peak condition.
That said, here are the most common mental health benefits of cycling:
1. Reduces Stress
Research shows that people who regularly cycle are at a significantly lower risk of getting stressed. This is because cycling — like any form of exercise — helps the body achieve lower levels of its stress hormone, known as cortisol.
Interestingly, it is found that merely getting on your bike can help relieve tension, and enable you to manage day-to-day stress as your body’s natural painkillers, endorphins, are released as soon as you sit on the saddle.
Although general cardiovascular exercise can help reduce stress and relieve anxiety, cycling, especially, can benefit the rider’s overall state of mind.
2. Fights Depression
Cycling and mental health go a long way in the limelight, as it is known to help keep certain conditions like depression under control; simply enjoying a ride on your bike can help you conquer the “demons” in your mind.
A recent review of 26 years’ worth of scientific research by the University of Toronto has confirmed that exercise does not only help treat depression, but it also aids in preventing its occurrence. As a matter of fact, the researchers roughly calculated that an inactive adult who exercises three times a week can lessen their risk for experiencing depression by 19%.
3. Helps With Anxiety
Being outdoors has been proven to help with anxiety. More specifically, the sun’s natural light has been known to help with Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD).
Embarking on a bike ride for mental health is a great way to receive a good amount of vitamin D. Additionally, cycling can have the same effects as certain anti-anxiety medications — wherein it decreases stress levels in the body, boosts one’s mood, and eases the symptoms linked to anxiety by releasing “feel-good” endorphins.
4. Keeps You Calm and Mindful
Mindfulness, a mental health practice often utilized by athletes, entails self-awareness and “being in the moment.”
Cycling embodies this as our brain’s focus is placed on nothing but keeping the pedals turning. This helps you feel calmer while managing intrusive thoughts racing in your mind.
A Note on Cycling, Mental Health, and Research
A research study conducted by a mental charity, Mind, revealed that one in four people will experience a mental health concern every year. One of the factors linked to a higher risk of mental health problems is a difference in physical health.
A survey by Cycleplan, which aimed to explore the health benefits of cycling, found that 75% of cyclists observed an improvement in their mental health upon getting on the saddle, and 8% claiming that it helped with their anxiety and depression.
As the saying goes, “healthy body, healthy mind,” and cycling is a superb example of this.
Take a Breather, and Check Out Our Bike Rentals Today!
Experience the mental health benefits of cycling with us at Island Marine Rentals. Indulge yourself with a nice ride at the beach and its nearby parks, coupled with good food and refreshing drinks. With our bike rentals, you can enjoy a hassle-free and leisurely ride on your vacation.
Not only will you have a great outdoor experience, but you can also have fun while keeping your physical and mental health well-maintained. Plus, you can ride on our top-tier bikes for as low as $10 an hour.
What are you waiting for? Take that break from work, and have a fun time at the beach. It’s called self-care. If you’re itching for a bit more excitement, explore our boat rental in Clearwater Beach, FL.
For inquiries and more information on our rental services, call us today!
