While most people consider the use of a cycle to commute back and forth over short distances, the truth is that with its obvious benefits to health, and the Tour De France being in the news year after year, more and more people are taking to cycling as a means by which they can perform cardiovascular exercise.

According to most experts, this is one of the most strenuous forms of cardiovascular exercise, which could automatically mean, that there are several health benefits that are involved too. And so here is a list of benefits that one can gain from cycling on a regular basis:

Benefit #1: Improves one’s mood

According to recent studies, it has been found that the activity of cycling has been known to have positive effects on how you feel as well as reduce the effects of stress and depression. All in all, cycling raises one’s mood and increases one’s self-esteem as well.

Benefit #2: Maintains strength and coordination

Since the activity of cycling gives one the ability to increase their stamina and energy levels, this obviously helps people to carry tasks in their daily routine far more easily than those who do not cycle at all.

Benefit #3: Weight management

Not only does vigorous exercise such as cycling burns more calories (thus influencing weight loss) but it also increases your metabolism, and this contributes to weight management as well.

Benefit #4: Improves heart health

If one cycles daily for a certain amount of time, there are several illnesses that one won’t have to deal with as the risk for illnesses such as diabetes, blood pressure and heart disease.

Benefit #5: Environmentally-friendly

With the emphasis on a greener and cleaner environment, it is a good idea to try cycling not only as an option for cardiovascular exercise but also to commute with as this helps in the drive to reduce one’s carbon footprint for the planet.