Cases of lifestyle diseases has been rising constantly in India. Sitting for a prolonged period of time, working under perennial stress, and unhealthy eating habits are some of the reasons that have contributed to the increase in diagnosis of some serious illnesses such as heart attack, diabetes, cancer, and obesity, among others.
More importantly, medical data shows that youths are becoming more prone to such diseases, mainly due to their sedentary lifestyle and lack of physical activity. However, in order to be fit and healthy, being physically active is very crucial. According to the experts, cycling is the most effective form of physical activity that can help you fight health problems related to sedentary lifestyle.
Hence, it is recommended for you to cycle at least 10 to 12 miles every day. And in case you’re worried about the potential dangers to yourself or your cycle, you can procure a cycle insurance policy. It offers financial protection against theft, loss or damage to the bicycle along with a cover for accidental death of the rider.
Here are some of the noteworthy reasons for you to include cycling in your daily routine:
Table of Contents
Good for your mental health
According to a study by the YMCA, people who are physically active are found to be 32 percent happier than those who are comparatively inactive. Regular physical exercises such as cycling releases hormones like adrenaline and endorphins in your body that will make you feel happier and improve your overall mental health.
Reduces the risk of obesity
Cycling is one of the most rigorous physical activities that can help you burn a lot of calories and hence, reduce the risk of obesity. On an average, cycling for an hour can help you burn 400 to 1000 calories, depending on your weight and intensity of the ride. Additionally, cycling daily will also help you to build your muscles and tone your body.
Regulates your metabolism rate
The benefits of cycling run deep into the core of your body. It regulates the metabolism rate of the body by decreasing the time food takes to move through the large intestine, thereby fastening the process of digestion and release of energy. In addition, such aerobic exercises accelerate your breathing rate and the speed with which heart pumps the blood.
Improves your immunity and stamina
According to a research conducted at the University of North Carolina, those who cycle for at least 30 minutes a day are found to have 50% more stamina than those who do not. Also, moderate exercises like cycling helps in activating the immune cells of your body, thereby boosting your immunity against infections and diseases.
Easy on your pocket
Cycling daily is not only good for your physical and mental health but it can also improve your financial health. At a time when fuel prices are skyrocketing, you can choose to commute to your workplace via a bicycle and save a hefty amount of money every month. Moreover, maintaining a cycle will cost you nothing when compared to the maintenance cost of a car or two-wheeler.
Apart from the benefits mentioned above, another prominent advantage of using a bicycle is it’s eco-friendly. Unlike a motor vehicle, a cycle does not release any harmful gases into the atmosphere and hence, produces zero pollution.
However, while there are uncountable advantages of cycling on a daily basis, there is always a possibility of a mishap that can result in loss, theft, or damage to your bicycle. Or worse, it can cause bodily injuries or even death of the rider. To keep yourself secured against such contingencies, you can purchase a cycle insurance policy.
It’s prudent to research for the best cycle insurance plans available in India and select the one which suits your needs and preferences. For instance, you can opt for cycle cover from Bajaj Finserv Pocket Insurance & Subscriptions. With this policy, you can get a coverage of up to Rs. 25,000 for your bicycle and up to Rs. 2 lakh against accidental death at a premium of Rs. 899 only.