Did you know that Frank Bowden, the founder of bicycle brand Raleigh, initially took up cycling following a spell of bad health and a recommendation from his doctor? Frank was so impressed by the results, he bought a small bicycle company and turned it into – at one point – the largest bicycle manufacturer in the world.\u00a0 <\/span>Could there be a better endorsement for cycling for your health?<\/span><\/p>\n Regular cycling can reduce your risk of heart disease, type 2 diabetes, and stroke. Not only that, but regular cycling can reduce your chances of catching the common cold, by improving your upper-respiratory system. Cycling is low-impact exercise, much kinder to your joints than running.<\/span><\/p>\n The benefits of cycling are extensive and extend beyond your physical health; the simple joy of getting on a bike is great for your mental health too. Your post-ride endorphins can help to alleviate symptoms of stress, anxiety, and depression. A recent UK report shows that the three leading methods for dealing with stress are: spending time outside, listening to music, and exercise. <\/span><\/p>\n If it’s been a little while since you’ve been out on your bike, or if you\u2019re entirely new to two wheels, then getting on the saddle can be daunting. Here\u2019s a few tips that should help to make it a little easier:<\/p>\n Cycling is great as you can (just about) do it anywhere. You don’t need to go to a gym or a specific location, so as long as you have a road or cycle lane, you’re good to go. Make cycling part of your routine by switching your short car journeys for your bike – you’ll be surprised how much you want to spend more time cycling, and will find yourself well on your way to the recommended 150 minutes of exercise per week.<\/p>\n 14% of British cyclists own an e-bike, and this figure will continue to rise substantially in the coming years. Put simply, an e-bike will help you to go further, faster and\/or for longer than you may be able to on a traditional bike. These pedal-assist cycles use a battery and motor to increase the power output from your pedalling.<\/p>\n E-bikes do make cycling more accessible for many. They are a great way to break down barriers to cycling for those who are recovering from injury, looking to improve their fitness or wanting to start their cycling journey. But even the fittest of us can benefit; It\u2019s a common misconception that riding an e-bike means you\u2019re not working your muscles, especially that most important muscle, your heart. In fact, an e-bike will mean you\u2019re riding for longer and stopping less often, keeping your heart pumping.<\/p>\nGetting back on the saddle<\/b><\/h3>\n
\n
What about electric bikes?<\/b><\/h3>\n
Join the cycling revolution<\/b><\/h3>\n