Mountain biking isn’t just for the expert biker; it’s great for people of all ages and fitness levels. In addition to providing impressive scenery for your workout, mountain biking boasts numerous health benefits. Here are five reasons to consider donning your helmet and kneepads and taking your bike for an off-road spin.
1. It decreases the risk of disease.
It’s no secret that exercise decreases your risk for various illnesses. Mountain biking, in particular, helps prevent heart disease, breast cancer, and obesity.
Research has found that three hours of biking per week cuts the risk of heart disease and stroke in half, while studies also show a significant reduction in the risk of breast cancer for women who bike at least 30 minutes each day.
2. It promotes heart health.
The CDC recommends at least two and a half hours of moderate-intensity exercise a week for adults. This is the amount of activity necessary to benefit heart health. But in order to be effective, the exercise must raise your heart rate and cause you to break a sweat. It’s safe to say mountain biking fits the bill.
3. It helps you manage stress.
Today’s adult is constantly overwhelmed by stress. The fast-paced society in which we live is like a factory of stress-inducing situations. What’s worse, it’s been found that emotional stress actually causes your body physical harm.
Getting outside for exercise is a sure-fire way to manage stress and keep it from becoming a serious concern down the road. The fresh air, the scenery, and the intensity of mountain biking provide the perfect opportunity for an outdoor workout.
4. It improves mood.
Exercise releases endorphins, a brain chemical that triggers a euphoric high and staves off depression. Working out also decreases the amount of depression-enhancing chemicals present in your immune system. All this, combined with the stress-relieving benefits of mountain biking, make it an excellent exercise choice.
5. It’s joint-friendly.
As you age, your joints become more susceptible to injury. Even if you’ve been a runner all your life, it may be time to consider trading in your running shoes for a mountain bike.
Cycling is much easier on your joints, reducing the risk of injury while providing the same cardiovascular and calorie-burning benefits as more high-impact activities.
The experts at Matrix Age Management know how to help you stay active and live your best life as you grow older. After all, age is just a number. We believe everyone, regardless of his or her stage in life, can be active and healthy. Get in touch with us to learn more.
