How Healthy is Mountain Biking?
Getting active is good for your health and can even help you lose weight. Mountain biking is an excellent form of exercise that can be done at various intensity levels. It is one of the most effective and efficient ways to burn calories without running the risk of injury.
It also improves your balance and coordination. This is because it requires quick reactions and the ability to avoid falls.
It’s a great form of exercise
Exercise like mountain biking burns over 150 calories in a 20-minute workout. It also helps strengthen muscles and improves posture. It’s a great way to stay active and fit, especially for people new to exercising.
In addition to strengthening the muscles of your legs, thighs, and calves, mountain bike riding also tones the upper body. This is because it requires you to use your arms and upper body to navigate obstacles.
As you ride, it’s essential to think ahead and plan for any changes in terrain. This will keep you safe and allow you to enjoy the ride more.
Research suggests that mountain biking can also reduce stress and increase serotonin levels, which are a good thing for your mental health. It also boosts the production of endorphins, chemicals that reduce pain and anxiety.
It’s good for your heart
Mountain biking requires a lot of oxygen, which is good for your heart. It’s also low impact, so it’s gentle on your knees and hips.
Cardio exercises have been proven to reduce high blood pressure and keep your heart healthy. As a result, you’re less likely to develop heart disease and stroke.
A good cardio workout will burn calories, which can help you lose weight. Plus, it’s an excellent way to maintain a healthy weight, which can prevent many health problems.
You may notice a boost in serotonin, a hormone that regulates your mood and helps you cope with stress. It’s also a great activity for social interaction and can help you build strong friendships with others who share your love of biking.
It’s important to remember that doing too much too soon can lead to injury and burnout, so start small and work your way up. As long as you are consistent, mountain biking is an excellent form of exercise and will improve your overall health.
It’s good for your bones
The impact and vibration involved in mountain biking can stimulate bone density, strengthen bones, and reduce osteoporosis risk.
A study published in 2002 compared the bone density of mountain bikers to that of road cyclists and found that the off-roaders had significantly higher bone density in their entire bodies than the roadies did. This is likely because the vibrations endured while mountain biking stimulated bone growth and are similar to the stimulation of bone formation and strength seen in other sports, such as soccer and rugby.
Another factor that may have contributed to the lower bone density of road cyclists is the caloric shortfall associated with long-duration cycling. To keep up with the constant demand on the body for performance, cyclists often restrict their diets and lose a lot of calcium through sweat.
It’s good for your mind
A great mountain bike ride can improve your mood, help you sleep better, and make you feel fabulous. Riding also releases endorphins and serotonin, which are suitable for mental health.
Riding your bike is like meditation, letting the chatter in your head evaporate and focus on the trail ahead. It’s a great way to clear your mind of the daily stressors that can cause anxiety or depression, and it helps you feel calmer and more in control when you get back home.
Getting in some quality outdoor activity is also an excellent way to increase your social skills, improving your mood and overall happiness. Plus, getting out in nature is known to have several physical benefits, including reduced stress levels and a more robust immune system. The best part is that it’s a lot of fun! So, if you’re looking for some new outdoor activities to try this summer, try your hand at mountain biking.