Cycling : Why is Cycling Better Than Running?
Seth Taube
On 27 December 2022

Whether you are looking to become more fit and stay healthy or are already an avid cyclist, you should know a few things about cycling. Cycling is a great way to burn calories, strengthen your quadriceps, and even help with bone health. You can also save money on your fitness routine by choosing cycling over running.
Cycling burns more calories.
Running and cycling are both cardiovascular activities that can improve your overall health. They can also help you maintain a healthy weight. Cycling can be done at a faster pace, which increases the number of calories you burn.
Cycling is a low-impact activity that can be enjoyed on virtually any level. It’s easy to get started and can be sustained for long periods of time. It’s also inexpensive. You don’t need to spend a fortune on a bike or equipment.
A 30-minute moderately paced cycling session burns 202 calories for a female. The average man will be able to squeeze in a 225-calorie-per-hour workout.
However, if you want to maximize your calorie burn, try an interval workout. This consists of alternating bouts of speed and recovery periods.
Another way to increase your calorie burn is to add a few hills to your ride. In addition, cycling will help you lower your LDL cholesterol levels.
Cycling strengthens quadriceps
Cycling is an excellent exercise for building strength, endurance, and muscle mass. It is a cardiovascular activity that also strengthens the core, shoulders, and hamstrings.
Unlike sprinting, cycling requires low impact. This results in low pain and discomfort. As a result, it can help reduce the risk of injury. This can increase the body’s lactate threshold, which will increase the body’s aerobic efficiency.
The muscles that are most involved in pedaling are the quadriceps. These muscles are activated during the top of the pedal stroke and the bottom of the stroke. They are responsible for generating the bulk of the power. However, other muscle groups play a role in maintaining stability while pedaling.
Aside from the quadriceps, the other major muscles involved in cycling are the hamstrings. Hamstrings are used to support the knee during flexion and extension and assist in knee stability when fully extended. During the downstroke, triceps surae are recruited.
Other muscles include the gluteus medius and minimus. The Gluteus maximus is also responsible for the downward phase of the pedal stroke.
Cycling is cheaper
If you have extra time, you can ride a bike instead of running. Not only will you save money, but you’ll also be doing your body a favor. Whether you’re looking for a leisurely ride or a competitive challenge, cycling can be a great way to enjoy nature without having to leave the comforts of home.
You might think that running is the most efficient form of exercise, but it actually uses much less energy than this. For example, you’ll need almost 800% more energy to pedal up a 10% hill than you would to walk the same distance on a flat surface.
Running is a high-impact activity that puts stress on your joints and can strain already-damaged muscles. Cycling is a lower impact and is gentler on your bones.
Running and cycling are both good for your health, but you should choose one for your particular situation. Before you start, check with your doctor or physical trainer. Also, don’t do anything that you aren’t comfortable with, as doing too much can increase the risk of dangerous complications like low blood sugar and ketoacidosis.
Cycling is better for bone health.
Cycling may not promote bone health as much as running. A 2011 review found that it may not have the same positive effects on bone mass. However, this may be good for your cardiovascular system, as well as lower your risk of cancer and arthritis. It is a low-impact sport and is often pain-free.
In order to maintain a healthy skeleton, you should focus on weight-bearing exercises. You should also eat a meal with calcium. Eating a glass of milk every day is a good way to get your daily dose of this mineral. Experts also suggest jumping for your lower limbs and lifting heavy weights for your upper body.
There are a few reasons why running is better for your bones than cycling. Running is a high-impact activity, putting significant pressure on your bones. If you are training for a competitive event, you are at an increased risk of fractures.
But if you want to avoid breaking bones while riding your bike, you’ll need to keep your energy levels up. A recent study shows that road cyclists who train hard for multiple years have a higher risk of developing osteoporosis.