CHASE THE BREEZE

If you’re searching for a way to improve your health, it’s as easy as riding a bike.

Each push of the pedals gets your cardiovascular system working – but that is only the start of the benefits it can provide.

Regular cycling also means increased muscle strength and flexibility, improved joint mobility, decreased stress levels, improved posture and co-ordination, strengthened bones, decreased body fat, prevention or management of disease and reduced anxiety or depression.

The low-impact exercise option can work well for just about anyone, from school kids to seniors, with the ability to start off slowly and increase the intensity.

Steady cycling burns about 1200 kilojoules (about 300 calories) per hour.

All of the major muscle groups get a workout as you cycle, and this could be all while getting you to your destination of work or school, making it easier to fit exercise into your day.

National Physical Activity Guidelines recommend 30 minutes of moderate-intensity physical activity each day but many Aussies fall short of this mark.

Our sedentary lifestyle is one of the big risk factors for acute and chronic disease, including cardiovascular disease and diabetes.

An activity such as cycling that works as part of your daily routine can provide the extra motivation to stick with it.

So get out there and chase the breeze – you’ll feel much better for it.