Why cycling matters. Number two - it's good for you

Why is cycling is good for you? 

Firstly, it's healthy. Reports galore from the health profession list the amazing health benefits of regular cycling:

• it can reduce the risk of over 20 chronic health conditions, including high blood pressure, diabetes, asthma and bronchitis, mental health conditions such as depression and anxiety disorders, and cardiovascular disease.
• it can reduce the risk of the two leading preventable causes of premature death - heart disease and cancer
• reduces feelings of depression and anxiety
• helps control weight
• helps build and maintain healthy muscles and joints
• helps older adults become stronger andbetter able to move about without falling
• it has a positive effect on emotional levels of well-being, self-confidence and tolerance to stress, reducing tiredness and difficulties with sleep.
• cyclists can expect to live at least 2 years longer than non-cyclists.

It is easy to fit into your life. You can hop on a bike as part of your daily routine - to the shops, to work, to see friends and get your daily dose of recommended physical activity (30 minutes a day). Without even thinking about it. And despite what is commonly thought, there's rarely a need for special gear, except perhaps a waterproof when the clouds gather.

It is suitable for people of all ages, abilities and fitness:

• You can cycle at a pace and for a distance that suits you. Gentle cycling 10/15 mins to the shops and back every day is just as good for your health as the longer, fitness-orientated journeys. 
• Cycling has few side-effects (apart from the occasional tight hamstring which is easily remedied by regular stretching).
• Cycling is low-impact and easier on the joints than activities such as jogging.
• It is particularly suited to those of us who may be overweight as approx 70% of weight is bourne by the saddle. Choose one of our 'easy rider' bikes - the upright position minimises strain on the back and wrists, the suspension seatpost smooths away any jolts and the comfortable saddle speaks for itself!
• If your ability requires more than a two-wheeler, there is an amazing range of trikes, tandems and other wonderful machines available - just email for advice, or check out the London Cycling's guide to guide to All Abiity cycling here.

And, for those concerned about the risks, a British Medical Association survey recently established that the health benefits of cycling outweigh any risks by a factor of 20:1! A sedentary lifestyle is far more dangerous to your health. Any risks can be reduced even further by some good safety practice - ensuring visibility at all times on the, cycle safety checks before each ride, good route-planning and, for the inexperienced, some time with a cycle trainer to improve your cycling skills and road awareness.

Finally, and most importantly for me, cycling is good for you because it feels good. Obvious but I feel important. I have always felt that an energizing taste of good health can be the essential motivator to kickstart your way to a healthier place. I believe that cycling can give you that kick. I know whenever I am feeling down or demotivated, I hop on my Gazelle for a spin around the Derwent Valley. When I am back at my door, I am always in a better place.

And dont just take my word for it. Lorna was our first "Borrow-a-Community-Bike" customer. After a whirlwind week around the trails of the Peaks on a folding bike, she said "By the end of the week, I felt very energised - as well as stiff! - and generally healthier and - to my surprise! - happier." Lorna is 70.

Cycling is good for you. Simple as. If you haven't already, why not give it a go - there's never been a better time or more good reasons to hop on your steed and cycle away into the sunset.