Bike riding & your health

Physical activity provides numerous physical, psychological and social benefits and plays a key role in maintaining the independence and wellbeing of older adults. As such there has been a significant increase in the number and variety of physical activity programs being offered to older adults across Victoria.

Bicycle riding is a popular and appropriate form of physical activity for seniors with a strong evidence base. Cycling improves cardiovascular fitness, uses all the major muscle groups, improves circulation, cholesterol, relieves rheumatoid arthritis and helps people cope with stress. As a low impact exercise which moves the joints without jarring, cycling like walking and swimming is ideal for the management and prevention of arthritis.

There can also be indirect benefits in terms of reducing injuries from falls, which can be seriously disabling, especially in older people. The strength and co-ordination that regular cycling brings make them less likely. Physically active older people have much reduced rates of hip fracture.

 

Go For Your Life information relating to health benefits of cycling

Better Health Channel information relating to cycling and your health