Can you guess what surprising bicycling benefits are listed below? You may have thought your bicycling days are long gone. Perhaps your bike is gathering dust in your garage. It’s my hope that after reading these powerful benefits, you’ll pump up the tires, grease the chain, and get pedaling. 

They’re so surprising, in fact, that I’m willing to bet that health benefits #2 and 3 will knock your socks off. Whether or not fibromyalgia or chronic illness is an issue for you, bicycling can help. 

On your mark … ready … set …. GO!

Bicycling Benefits for your Health

Of course, we know that fitness in general is good for the body. Moving the body in healthy (not to mention gentle) ways can improve circulation, build stamina, and help with detoxification.

But there’s so much more to it.

Science has a lot to say when it comes to the connection between pedaling a bike and improving your health. While the benefits are too many to mention, I’ve plucked out just 3 benefits that you probably don’t know.

• ONE: Oh the sweet relief of SLEEP!

Stanford University School of Medicine found that insomnia sufferers who cycled for 20-30 minutes every other day decreased their “fall asleep” time by 50%!

Would you like to fall asleep faster – and sleep more soundly? Most fibromyalgia and chronic illness people do.

• TWO: Shift your DIGESTION from irritable to friendly. And, prevent cancer, too?

The experts at Bristol University state that physical activity makes the digestion process more efficient. With a regular fitness program, transit time (how long it takes for food to digest and be eliminated) is faster and healthier.

The important part to understand is that healthier digestion means that food passes through while it’s still hydrated and easy to pass. (No more IBS!) When digestion is slowed, liquids are absorbed into the body creating bloat and inflammation not to mention hard-to-pass stools.

Improved bowel health brings numerous overall health benefits including cancer prevention.

• THREE: Build new BRAIN cells and keep Alzheimer’s at bay!

Researchers at the University of Illinois state that cycling improves cognitive test-taking abilities AND builds a better memory. Who doesn’t want that?

These brain health benefits can also ward off or slow the onset of Alzheimer’s.

Just the tip of the health benefits iceberg –

There are dozens of other benefits of cycling that may surprise you. Here are a few more highlights:

• Reduces wrinkles for younger looking skin
• Promotes weight loss
• Boosts the immune system
• Burns fat
• Improves your sex life
• Builds strong lungs
• Increases longevity
• Improves heart health
• Boosts positivity
• Encourages creativity
• Promotes happiness

To check out more benefits, read this article HERE.  

Want even more? Here are 15 Benefits of Cycling that are sure to pique your interest. 

Additional Fitness Options

Think bicycling isn’t your thing? Check out this article to discover what fitness activity may be best for you: What Fitness Training Works Best with Fibromyalgia. 

Of course, walking is always a great option to include in your regular routine. Here’s a good resource for basic information: Walking – The All-Season, All-Weather Fibromyalgia Fitness Solution. 

Are you ready to hop on your bicycle and/or try something new? Share your thoughts below!