Why Cycling Is Killer Cardio

Posted On Nov 26, 2018 By BowFlex Insider Team

A fit woman working out on a Schwinn IC2 bike.

If you’ve been paying any attention to the world of indoor cycling — also known as spinning — you know how vast its popularity has grown in recent years. With cycling studios popping up in cities across the country, you may wonder what the hype is all about.

Curious about the benefits of cycling and are wondering if it is right for you? Read on to learn more:

It Tones Muscles

As you’d expect, indoor cycling is a great workout for your calves, thighs and butt, but it also has toning benefits for your core and upper body. Maintaining proper form when cycling is key to engaging your core and arms to get a full body workout — allowing you to burn even more calories than if you were to sit back and casually ride. In fact, the average individual burns anywhere between 400-600 calories in one 45-minute cycling workout.

It’s Low-Impact

If you have any sort of knee or hip pain, cycling is a great cardio option for you to check out. This workout is low-impact and skips the repetitive strain that you may experience in other types of cardio, like running. Because of its low-impact nature, you can work out longer and even later in life without experiencing joint pain.

It Boosts Your Body

As with other forms of cardio and most exercises in general, cycling has some awesome health benefits. It can help improve body composition, decrease fat mass and lower blood pressure and cholesterol, which are important for maintaining heart health. As a plus, cardio exercise is known to reduce stress, strengthen lungs, promote better sleep and boost energy.

For those looking for the health benefits of an indoor cycling workout without having to deal with group workout schedules, the C6 indoor exercise bike is a great at-home option that will allow you to squeeze in a cycling workout when it’s convenient for you.

Like most things, too much too soon or too frequently can have a negative impact on your body. Treat cycling as you would any other workout by preparing your body with a short stretch and warm-up before you really kick it in to high gear.