Discover five mental health benefits of cycling…
We all know that cycling can improve our physical health, but did you know that it can also boost our mental health? Whether you’re new to cycling or haven’t put your pedal to the metal since you were younger, we’ve got five reasons to get you back on your bike to cycle your way to better mental health!
1. REDUCED ANXIETY
Aerobic exercises such as running or cycling can greatly reduce the symptoms of anxiety. If you suffer from panic attacks or general anxiety, why not give cycling a try? Jumping on your bike can help clear your mind of upsetting or distracting thoughts and is a great way to practice mindfulness. Focus your attention on your breathing, the feel of the pedals under your feet and the sound of the road beneath your wheels. Feel the sun on your skin, the wind in your hair and the air in your lungs. Visualise your anxiety leaving your body with every breath you exhale.
Looking for more ways to deal with anxiety? Try these grounding techniques: https://ionpadel.com/for-me/mental-health/anxiety/grounding-techniques/
2. SOCIAL BENEFITS
Cycling can be a brilliant way to meet new people and make new friends! Find out if there are any cycling clubs in your area – you can check local Facebook or social media pages or click here to search for your nearest club.
Forging new friendships can help build your confidence. Don’t worry about your skill level (or lack of!) – everyone has to start somewhere! There will be lots of like-minded people there who you will have something in common with. It might also give you the chance to meet new people who go to a different school or live in a different town. Who knows, you may meet your new best friend!
Looking for more ways to make friends? Click here.
3. LESS STRESS
We could all do with reducing the stress in our lives. Cycling can help to reduce your feelings of stress and make you feel more relaxed. If you’ve been feeling overwhelmed, worried and irritable, you may be experiencing stress. Try a short bike ride to see if it helps you feel more cool-headed, calm and collected. Or hit the gym and try the exercise bikes – indoor cycling is a super stressbuster, too!
For more ways to deal with stress, click here.
4. EASY (ALMOST FREE) EXERCISE
Cycling can be a low-cost option for those who are looking to increase their activity levels. No expensive gym contracts or fancy equipment is required – all you need is a bike and a helmet. You can usually find a good second-hand bike on Facebook Marketplace or similar social media pages on a low budget. If you have a job, then it’s worth checking with your employer to see if they are enrolled in the government’s Bike2Work Scheme. This scheme is designed to get more people cycling and living healthier lives by helping them to ‘hire’ a tax-free bike. Get more information here.
Discover more ways to build fitness into your day:https://ionpadel.com/for-me/well-being-and-health/fitness/five-easy-fitness-swaps/
5. GREAT OUTDOORS
Cycling helps you reap the benefits of the great outdoors! It’s a brilliant way to dust off the cobwebs and revitalise your body, mind and soul. You’ll feel energised and active as you pedal your way through the countryside, soaking up the views and inhaling crisp, clean air. It’s almost impossible not to feel positive and upbeat when the beauty of Mother Nature is all around you!
Discover more ways the great outdoors can boost your mental health and wellbeing here: https://ionpadel.com/for-me/well-being-and-health/mental-well-being/five-ways-to-wellbeing-be-active/
NO BIKE? NO PROBLEM!
Don’t worry if you can’t get your hands on a bike – there are plenty of alternatives to get you moving and reaping the physical and mental benefits of exercise. Why not try:
- Swimming – it’s a great way to de-stress and works your whole body!
- Running – try the Couch to 5k plan to get you started.
- Walking – just 15 minutes every day can increase your life expectancy by 3 years!
- Skating – grab a couple of mates for a skate in the park or hit the local rink.
Get more advice about exercise and fitness here.
