As the clock struck midnight on January 1st, many of us set new goals to improve our lives in the upcoming year. Whether it’s going to the gym regularly, cycling to work, making healthier choices or saving money, it hasn’t even been a month and it might look like our resolutions are already going up in smoke – much like those fireworks on New Year’s Eve.
But no need to fret! We’ve got some exciting news. Adding biking into your daily routine not only is a fantastic habit in its own right, but it also comes with several additional benefits that can help you knock out your other goals too. Here are seven other resolutions that cycling can help you achieve in the new year:
🚴 Exercise more
Cycling is an excellent form of cardio exercise that can help improve your health. According to the American Heart Association, regular physical activity can lower the risk of heart disease, stroke, and high blood pressure. By doing that, you have a low-impact form of exercise that is easy on the joints and can be enjoyed by people of all ages and fitness levels. Whether you’re just starting or experienced on two wheels, there’s a level of cycling that’s right for you.
🔥 Lose those extra pounds
Tied to its cardio benefits, biking is also a great way to lose weight. In turn, weight loss can lead to a host of other health benefits, such as improved mobility and increased energy levels. A study conducted by Harvard University found that biking for just 20 minutes a day can help burn around 1,500 calories per week. This can add up to significant weight loss over time, you can easily do it by taking the bike to run your daily errands instead of the car. Remember: burn calories, not fuel.
💵 Save money
In addition to promoting physical health, biking can also help you achieve your financial goals. Biking is a cost-effective mode of transportation that can save you money on gas, parking, car maintenance, and transportation tickets. By choosing to bike instead of driving, you can significantly cut down on your transportation costs, leaving more money in your pocket for other things – like going on that summer trip to Greece. Not only that, but biking can also help you avoid the stress of traffic and save you time in your daily commute.
🤝 Get involved in the community
Want to explore new places, meet new people or support a green cause? Go on a bike ride! Cycling is a great way to achieve your social and community-building goals. Whether you join a local bike group – like the Critical Mass movement – or simply go for a solo ride, it can help you connect with others who share your passion for activism, the outdoors, and physical activity.
🌱 Help the environment
Another benefit of biking is that it’s great for the planet. Biking is a sustainable and eco-friendly mode of transportation that produces zero emissions, reduces the need for fossil fuels and decreases traffic congestion. When you choose to bike instead of driving, you’re making a conscious decision to reduce your carbon footprint and help to combat climate change. You go, Earth hero!
🧘 Make time for mental health
According to an American Psychiatry Association (APA) survey, over 30% of individuals cited mental health as their top priority for the new year. One of the most well-known benefits of cycling is the boost it can give to your mood. As you pedal, your body releases endorphins, which are chemicals that can improve your mood and reduce feelings of stress, anxiety and depression. Plus, getting outside and being active in nature has been shown to have a positive impact on mental health, which is another great reason to go on a bike ride in your free time.
🧠 Be more creative
Lastly, cycling can also help boost your creativity, improve your memory, and increase your focus. According to a study conducted by the University of British Columbia, cycling can improve connectivity in the brain, leading to better cognitive function. This could be particularly useful for people who have trouble focusing or have been diagnosed with attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD). Even if you don’t become the next Da Vinci, you may be better able to think outside the box than your couch-loving friends.
Overall, biking is a great way to start the new year off on the right foot – or right pedal (ba-dum-tss). Jokes aside, this is a fun and easy way to improve your physical health, save money, and help the environment. So, grab a Donkey bike and ride into the new year with a clear mind and a happy heart. Happy cycling!
