Most avid exercisers and athletes are always looking for a new way to challenge their body and increase weight loss and muscle mass. There are so many different exercise methods, fads, and trends around that it can be difficult to decide on one to try at a time.
Some of the most popular types today are yoga, Pilates, mixed martial arts, and kickboxing, as well as many other new and up-and-coming workouts. However, possibly what you, as a fitness buff, need is to go back to the basics.
Bicycling has been utilized as a cardiovascular exercise method for the past few decades. The reason it keeps improving and has lasting ability in the fitness world is because it is so great for the heart, lungs, and muscles.
Bikers are some of the most fit and intense athletes that there are; the sport is challenging to the cardiovascular system, while also calling for a great deal of leg strength. Though it is intense, it is also a great method for those who have joint or weight problems because it is so low-impact.
If you have been utilizing other fitness routines, like aerobics or Jiu Jitsu, why not supplement them with some good old-fashioned bicycle workouts! Whether you make use of a mountain or road bike in the outdoors or stick to the stationary bicycle, you should be able to experience similar results.
Because the workout is so easy on the joints of the body, it is able to perform it for a longer period of time. This means that your heart is in constant motion, pumping blood throughout your body.
Your lungs must work harder to bring in oxygen to be dispersed throughout your system, and this process can increase the health and functionality of many different organs. Not only is this a great form of exercise, it can take you the places that you need to go almost as efficiently as a vehicle or motorcycle.
Unlike these machines, however, you are the fuel that propels the pedals and causes the wheels to spin, moving the bike in association with your pedaling. A one hour cycling trip can burn anywhere from four to seven hundred calories, according to the intensity in which you ride and your body type/weight.
The motion that is required to propel a bike, especially when it is performed up hills and trails, can drastically affect your muscles, in a good way. The work that your body must put forth has a tendency to burn lots of fat and extra calories.
Those that are hoping to adopt a biking routine should also try and improve their lifestyle in other manners. Diet is just as important to weight loss and physical health as working out.
The energy and nutrients that the body obtains from food is the fuel that helps individuals to go forward with their exercise. Putting nutritious and energy-rich products into your system can actually help improve the level of intensity that you are able to work at and help your physical activity to last longer.
Athletes are supposed to maintain a specific caloric intake, especially on days when they are taking part in fitness; if you are unsure what a healthy level is for you, you may want to visit your doctor and receive some guidance. This amount is usually different for everyone and is decided upon through weight and BMI.
As a general rule of thumb, it is best to eat plenty of fruits and vegetables, whole grains, light dairy products, and lean meats. The dairy and meats will give the body protein, which is used as the building block to repair and regenerate muscle growth.
Whole grains give the body energy through carbohydrates, as well as offering some benefits to rid the system of unwanted substances. Fruits and vegetables are beneficial because they are chock full of essential nutrients and fiber, which maintains proper intestinal functioning.
Cutting out extra sugars and fats will give you an extra edge in your workout routine. These only weigh you down and negatively affect energy levels; fried foods, processed snacks, and sugary drinks like soda and some juices are especially draining and should be avoided.
Integrating biking into your routine and making it your new “go to” in physical activity should help you to lose weight and get stronger. Make use of some form of strength training, and you will feel fit and healthy in your new lifestyle!
About the author: Ronald Pedactor is a fitness trainer. He has been coaching athletes for more then 20 years. He recommends Proform.com for all of your exercise biking needs.