In this difficult time for the body of any person, when health problems at any age are practically considered the norm, it is very difficult to keep yourself in shape and find the time and means to maintain your physical and psychological state at the proper level. Today Estet-portal will talk about the type of physical activity that is beneficial for both the body and the mind.
People who can’t imagine their life without a bike, whether they realize it or not, bring great benefits to their health and figure, because cycling helps:
- lower blood pressure;
- regulate blood cholesterol levels;
- manage weight;
- reduce the risk of heart disease and type 2 diabetes.
However, in addition to this, cycling also contributes to the structural and functional improvement of the brain. In order not to be unfounded, we present to your attention a list of benefits that cyclists receive by doing what they love for mental and emotional health.
Pedaling to strengthen interneuronal connections
You probably know about the presence of gray and white matter in the brain. So, this is the whitest substance, which is mainly located under the surface of the brain, connects its various parts, ensuring their interaction. If the system of connections is disturbed, thinking slows down, other cognitive disorders appear.
Fortunately, there is evidence that improving motor skills (eg practicing karate, dancing, etc.) helps the above system to work without interruption. The integrity of white matter neural pathways is increased if a person pedals regularly. All this, of course, was proved by scientists in the course of research.
Brain-derived neurotrophic factor as a bonus
Brain-derived neurotrophic factor (aka BDNF, aka brain-derived neurotrophic factor) may be the main link between physical activity and brain health. BDNF helps existing neurons survive and also promotes the creation of new nerve cells. Moreover, the brain-derived neurotrophic factor protects the mental center of the human body from certain neurological diseases, including Alzheimer's and Parkinson's diseases. Physical activity, including cycling, has already been found to increase BDNF levels.
Cycling helps improve memory and logic
Aerobic exercise has a positive effect on the brain. The benefits of such exercises are primarily due to the fact that blood flow to the brain increases, due to which this "metabolically voracious" the body constantly receives portions of oxygen and nutrients. This is what experts explain the fact that physical activity (and in our case – cycling) helps to maintain mental clarity, sanity, the ability to learn and justify as a person ages.
Of course, this does not mean that the benefits of cycling can only be felt at retirement age. Many people confirm that cycling helps to "switch your mind into a high gear." And scientists confirm this with research: just 30 minutes of cycling at a moderate speed can improve the memory, logic, planning and speed of thinking of a cyclist!
On the road to relaxation and wellness by bike
Regular physical activity has long been proven to help prevent stress, anxiety and depression. According to research, just 15 minutes of cycling can lower the level of the stress hormone – cortisol. And the fact of being outdoors at the same time only enhances the health benefits of cycling. Spending time in nature alone relieves symptoms of stress, depression and anxiety.
However, dear cyclists and just fans of cycling, don't take scientists' word for – do your experiments! Grab your bike, helmet, and go for bike rides to your favorite places as often as possible. And you can always share the results of your experiments with Estet-portal and our readers in the comments!
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