Discover 9 reasons why you should switch from car to bike. First of all, you will not get stuck in traffic, you will have a he althier spine and heart, you will lose weight and strengthen your leg muscles. In addition, you will have a pleasant time with your friends on a bike trip.

When you choose a bicycle as your means of transport, you also decide on a certain lifestyle, ecological and he althy. You also prove that you are not indifferent to environmental matters.

When choosing a bike, you care about the environment

Environmental contamination is one of the most serious problems today. The growing number of cars is not contributing to its solution.The bikeis one of the few means of transport that does not emit exhaust fumes. It is more mobile, so you do not stand in traffic jams and inhale urban pollution. You can always turn into a side street, ride a bike path or through the park. The bicycle does not cause noise, the level of which, especially in the centers of large cities, exceeds all the permissible standards.

You don't waste time choosing a bike

The bike is always ready to go. Plus, you don't have to wait at the bus stop for a crowded bus or tram that can infect you with the flu or rob you. When you have business to attend to, you just get in and drive. Although the amount of energy you need to move a bicycle is comparable to the amount you use when walking briskly, the distance you will travel in this time is almost three times as long. Yes, you will get tired of going uphill, but the descent will be fun.

See also: 10 advantages of skating

You save money by choosing a bike

Buying and maintaining a bicycle is incomparably cheaper than a motorcycle or a car. For as little as PLN 800-1000 you can buy a nice two-wheeler in a bicycle or sports store.

The advantage of the bike is also the lack of monthly maintenance fees. You don't have to take out insurance ( although if your bike is very expensive, it's a good idea to insure it against theft), and you don't pay for gas or parking. It takes up 10 times less space than a car, so it does not require a garage. It will fit in the basement or on the balcony.

You only need to budget a small amount for maintenance and in your budgetpossible repairs. A thorough inspection of the bike should be done at least once a year. It can cost you from 80 to 100 zlotys. This is definitely a much smaller sum than the one you would have to pay for bus or tram tickets annually.

Why is it worth riding a bike?

You must do it

You must absolutely wear a helmet!

Even if you think it is uncomfortable or that you look stupid in it. The consequences of an injury do not depend primarily on the speed of travel, but on the force of the impact. This, in turn, depends on the height from which you fall. Death threatens as soon as he falls from a height of 117 cm; the falling speed is then 17.6 km / h. On average, a cyclist's head is 160 cm above the ground, so if the cyclist falls over, it hits harder. A helmet, on the other hand, reduces the risk of head injuries by up to 85%. Well-fitted, with ventilation holes, when it does not constrict or overheat, it is a desirable piece of equipment for every cyclist.

Check: How to choose a bicycle helmet? Tips for buyers

By choosing a bike you protect your own life

According to statistics, accidents involving cyclists are much less frequent than those involving pedestrians and car drivers. But be careful, on the bike you are not protected by the bodywork. However, it is easier to get around vehicles with it, so you have a better chance of avoiding an accident. Remember that your bike should have working brakes, good tires, a bell and lights. Whencyclingnot only obey traffic laws, but also use common sense.

By choosing a bike, you get to know your surroundings better

While riding your bike, you can admire your surroundings and discover previously unknown places. Thanks to this, you will get to know the city and the surrounding area better. How many interesting streets, bridges and parks are there that you will never discover using the city's transport. In each of these places you can always stop for a while and rest a bit.

By choosing a bike, you improve your mood

When you ride a bike or play other sports, your body releases endorphins called happiness hormones. They minimize the feeling of effort and muscle fatigue, improve well-being and increase satisfaction. The work of the respiratory system stabilizes. Faster circulation makes the body better oxygenated and functions more efficiently. We are he althier.

Additionally, cycling helps you avoid stress and relax. After all, you have the advantage over other vehicles that you can drive almost anywhere without any problems. You can also use various shortcuts. Car drivers are not allowed to travel to many places eitherno proper road.

By choosing a bike, you shape your leg muscles

Calves work the hardest when cycling. The buttocks and thigh muscles are also active, especially the biceps and quadriceps, and to some extent - the abdominal muscles. When you go uphill, the arms and muscles of the chest work as well. If you cycle about 90 km in a week, you will quickly strengthen your muscles and eliminate fatty tissue on your hips and thighs.

By choosing a bike, you strengthen your spine

The bike is also a great way to strengthen the back muscles that support the lower, lumbar spine. It is also important to have a well-positioned saddle at the right angle. Too straightened figure causes spine strain and fatigue.

When choosing a bike, you care about your heart

Riding a bicycle is a great training for the heart. It forces the circulatory system to work more efficiently, protecting it against hypertension and the heart against diseases. During rhythmic pedaling, the heart calms down and each contraction is fuller and causes better oxygenation of internal organs. Also, remember that the more you ride a bike, the less your heart gets tired. The heart rate is not as fast as it was at the beginning of your adventure with the bike and you will not feel out of breathlessness or fatigue.

"Zdrowie" monthly

Category:

ABC of exercises