A Brief Education in Cycling
Unlike soccer, football, baseball, and even track and field, cycling is not necessarily the top attention or cash grabbing sport in the world today. In reality, most of us know very little – if anything – about the sport. The bicycle (the instrument of the cycler) is one of the most familiar items in the world. It, however, is recognized as a leisure and transportation tool. Many of us fail to think of the bicycle as the equipment a cycler uses in a heart-pumping competition. In recent years, figures such as Lance Armstrong have brought some attention to the sport. Nevertheless, it remains largely in the obscurity.
The lack of attention paid to cycling does not reflect a lack of importance or deserving. In fact, the sport is extremely interesting to follow and truly beneficial to practice.
The bike itself was invented as a means of transport. Beyond the function of getting riders from one place to another, it also serves as a primary piece of equipment in sport and athletics.
Cycling has not always been a minor sport. In fact, cycling races date back to the 19th century. The Tour de France, which began in 1903, is a reminder of the “Golden Age of Cycling” which took place around the world from the 1890s to the 1950s. Since that time, the sport has faded from the headlines. Nevertheless, competition continues.
Racing and competition in cycling can take place in various formats. Road races, indoor competitions and mountain bike races are all aspects of this multi-faceted activity. Cyclers compete as both teams and individuals, and competitions can last minutes, hours and even days.
Nowadays, cycling is moving beyond the world of professional racers and becoming popular among a wide array of amateur athletes and sports enthusiasts. It is an excellent way to spice up a cardio work-out.
Cycling is an extremely healthy activity and is linked to increased physical and mental well-being. In fact, Sustrans estimates that investment in cycling provision can give back a 20:1 return from health and other benefits.
Cycling is primarily a cardiovascular activity, much like running, swimming and rowing. It differs from similar cardio work-outs is in that it is low-impact and therefore much easier on joints and bones than, for example, jogging. Cyclers burn calories and fat during work-outs (though how many calories are burned depends largely upon effort) and is a great cardio alternative for those with arthritis, past sports injuries or problems with obesity.
Those looking to try out cycling have both indoor and outdoor options. Indoor spin classes are popping up in gyms all over and seem to be all the rage. For those who prefer to be outside, the cycling options are endless. All that’s necessary is a bike.
Cycling is truly a fantastic sport to both watch and practice. If you haven’t gotten in on the action yet, check out your television sports channels and head to your local sporting goods stores.
Damian Papworth loves cycling, both as a recreational activity and in weekend competition. He knows how important hydration in cycling is so he launched the Cycling Water Bottle website. You can visit it at http://cyclingwaterbottleshop.com
Tags: bikes, biking, cycling, exercise, fitness, health, health and fitness, lifestyle, people, sport, sport and recreation, travelDecember 14 2009 | cycling | No Comments »