zoom_in Click to enlarge

Cycling

▲ ▼

language

description Cycling Overview

Cycling is a premier cardiovascular sport that builds significant lower-body strength while remaining low-impact on the joints. Whether done on a road bike, mountain bike, or stationary spin bike, it allows for long-duration aerobic training. It is an excellent way to explore the outdoors and build endurance without the repetitive impact of running. Cycling also offers high-intensity options like sprint intervals which can rapidly improve VO2 max.

help Cycling FAQ

How many calories does an hour of moderate cycling burn?

A person weighing around 155 pounds can expect to burn approximately 500 to 600 calories during an hour of moderate cycling at 12 to 14 mph. This number increases significantly if you engage in high-intensity interval training or vigorous uphill mountain biking.

Is cycling better for your joints than running?

Yes, cycling is a low-impact cardiovascular sport that is generally much easier on the knees and ankles than running because the bicycle supports your body weight. This makes it a highly recommended aerobic exercise for individuals recovering from lower-body joint injuries.

What muscles does cycling target besides the calves?

Cycling primarily targets the quadriceps, hamstrings, and glutes, which work together to push the pedals down and pull them back up. Additionally, maintaining proper posture on the bike engages your core muscles to stabilize your upper body during the ride.

What is the difference between a road bike and a stationary spin bike?

A road bike is designed for outdoor terrain, featuring thin tires and a lightweight frame built for speed and long-duration aerobic training. In contrast, a stationary spin bike uses a heavy flywheel to mimic road resistance indoors, allowing for year-round cardio training regardless of the weather.

swap_horiz

Looking for Cycling alternatives? Compare top competitors ranked & scored

arrow_forward