Healthy Living : Pedal your way to a beautiful body and a healthy heart

Cycling is a good sport that is why I am number one fan of cycling competitions and also of Lance Armstrong and his cycling prowess. This is a man who has been in the circles of cycling championships for over two decades. He suffered from testicular cancer a few years ago and immediately it was found out that the cancer had spread to his abdomen, lungs, and lymph nodes. After having a testicle removed, drastically modifying his eating habits, and beginning aggressive chemotherapy, Armstrong was given a 65 to 85 percent chance of survival. When doctors found tumours on his brain, however, his odds of survival dropped to 50-50, and then to 40 percent. Fortunately, a subsequent surgery to remove his brain tumours was declared successful, and after more rounds of chemotherapy, Armstrong was declared cancer-free in February 1997. Even though he modified his eating habits, his cycling habit is what gave him more strength to pull through the treatment for anyone who knows what chemotherapy is all about. Cycling is good for your heart and health. Cycling exercises are also known for being beneficial to the strength, healing, and function of the body. Cycling exercise also helps build energy and stamina so that the body may perform well. Cycling weekly can also enhance the body immune system. Therefore, riding a bike for at least half an hour each day can prevent cardiovascular disease. What makes the cycling a very efficient sport is that a half hour bike ride can burn up to 235 to 240 calories. Cycling will not only get a person going, it is also a healthy and fun way to burn excess calories, by getting rid of body fat and improve cardiovascular health. If you look at cyclists they have strong muscles on their legs because of the motion of cycling. Cyclists have sculpted calf muscles; quadriceps and hamstring making their bodies look lean and strong. Cycling also firms the buttocks, strengthens the core region of the body which is essential for good balance, posture and the back muscles. For people who are dying to loose excess weight regular bike riding can reduce the weight and also helps lower anxiety and stress levels. Cardiovascular health patients can have a chance of getting better by taking on cycling with the right intensity to stimulate the muscles and the heart. Cycling also reduces the risk of serious conditions such as diabetes, heart disease, high blood pressure, and obesity. But before one takes to cycling there are a few things that need to be put in place before you hit the road. First of all, the bicycle must be in A-1 condition .Always ride a bicycle that is appropriate to your size. Do not ride when the seat is placed too low, incorrectly placed pedals, and missing headlights and taillights. A basic tune-up ensures a bicycle is in a good working condition, with inflated tires, smoothly adjusted brakes and a well-oiled chain. It is also important to gear up properly. Cycling gear is important for a safe and worry-free trip. Cycling jerseys should be in bright colors. If possible, wear a spandex cycling apparel, as it stretches under tension and recovers when tension is relaxed. Do ten minutes of exercise before taking on your cycling. Bikers must also wear the proper cycling kneepads, full-fingered cycling gloves and recommended safety helmets. Be careful with loose shoelaces and straps that could entangle in the bike’s chain or wheels. Do not wear headphones or use cell phones while on the road. Small bottles of water carried in the attached holder are helpful during long rides or on hot days. Not only cycling exercise help in building stamina to enable the body to perform daily chores since daily living demand that a man should be flexible and strong, but even a leisurely bike ride can put one in better shape for a better life. Ends

Lifestyle

Healthy Living : Pedal your way to a beautiful body and a healthy heart