Bicycle and stationary bike exercise: why they are the heart’s best friend

The regular physical activity , combined with a healthy way of life, produces a physical and mental well-being and helps to keep us young. In particular, aerobic sports such as running, swimming, cycling, positively affect the heart and circulatory system, because the muscles act with a moderate and constant workload.

Why is cycling so important for the heart?

Aerobic activity, such as pedaling, produces beneficial effects on the cardio-circulatory system allowing the heart to become stronger and more resistant. In fact, when pedaling, the cardiovascular system undergoes adaptations especially at the peripheral level (muscles and circulation) that allow the heart to work less and less at the same intensity of exercise.

What are the main physical benefits?

Cycling allows for a good workout for the heart and circulation, as:

- improves the pump function of the heart by optimizing oxygen consumption;

- improves the respiratory system, increasing lung capacity and bronchial function;

- reduces the risk of cardiovascular diseases such as heart attack and stroke;

- fights overweight;

- improves the metabolism of sugars and fats;

- it reduces blood pressure values ​​and “bad” cholesterol, favoring the “good” one;

- improves circulation of the venous system, since the rhythmic movement of the muscles makes the walls of the leg veins more elastic, preventing swelling and venous thrombosis.

What are, however, the benefits of the bicycle on the psyche?

Cycling is a complete sport, with benefits for the body as a whole. In fact, during this activity endorphins are produced , the so-called feel-good hormones, which intervene in mood regulation and cause a euphoric and anxiolytic effect. The advice for those approaching cycling for the first time is to start gradually with quiet walks in nature, away from traffic and cities. It is good then to practice it regularly, at least two or three times a week, in order to reap the benefits that this activity can give to our body.

Is the bicycle just a means of prevention?

The bicycle also represents a valid rehabilitation therapy for heart patients .

Photo by Andrea Piacquadio on Pexels.com

After an acute cardiac event, such as a myocardial infarction or cardiac surgery, a rehabilitation period is recommended during which a program is set up which provides a personalized workload for each patient and which uses, among other things, , the use of exercise bikes . Physical exercise, if done regularly and with adequate training, to be continued in the following months and years, allows the heart to function at its best: like an engine that works at low speeds.

What are the advantages of the exercise bike over the bicycle?

The exercise bike can be used all year round , even when the weather conditions are bad, allowing for constant motor activity over the long term. Furthermore, compared to the bicycle, it allows you to “dose” the effort , ie to calibrate the workload, from mild to very intense, to train the heart with progressive cycles until the return to a normal regime. To obtain the best results, attention to breathing is important, which must always be commensurate and synchronized with the effort. get your indoor or outdoor exercise by here on amazon or get a bicycle here on amazon and get started today.