You
don't have to be super-fit to enjoy cycling, and it's good for you!
When
looking to lose weight, diets rarely work long-term, regular exercise always
does. Any type of regular exercise is of benefit, but cycling is particularly
good because fewer injuries occur as a result of it.
Cycling
is also a great calorie user which has various benefits.
According
to the British Heart Foundation, cycling at least 20 miles per week reduces
the risk of coronary heart disease to less than half
that for non-cyclists.
Cycling at a gentle 12 mph on a flat road uses 450 kcal per hour. It also
makes you feel younger and reduces stress. It is
also claimed that cycling
raises the speed of
your metabolism for hours afterwards, so your body continues to burn calories
even after exercise. 
Cycling
is mainly an aerobic activity (except when going uphill). This is beneficial
to the lungs which expand to push as
much oxygen into the body as possible
and the heart which beats faster to transport this oxygen around your body.
A strong heart and powerful lungs form the basis of
general fitness.
Even
if you cycle only a few miles per day, your muscles will gain the benefit,
usually becoming trimmer and more toned. The main muscles you use when cycling
are the upper thigh muscles, backside, and calf muscles.
Exercising releases what are known
as endorphins into your blood - these create a feeling of contentment
and happiness, therefore helping to reduce stress. Naturally,
if you cycle in pleasant suroundings - your contentment level
will be even greate
