Cycling

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by
Heather Black, CPT
Heather Black, CPT
Reviewed by Heather Black, CPT

Heather Black, CPT is a NASM-certified personal trainer and owner of Heather Black Fitness & Nutrition where she offers remote and in-person training and nutrition coaching.

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Updated on May 24, 2022

When you're creating a fitness routine, cardio is generally a common aspect to consider. How do you plan to get your heart rate pumping? There are plenty of options to add into your weekly habits, many of which, like cycling, are continuing to grow in popularity.

Whether indoors or out, following a guided program, in a group, or on your own, there’s a reason cycling continues to grow momentum. Get ready to push the pedals and reap the benefits of this full-body workout as we guide you on everything from footwear to choosing the best two-wheeler for your endeavors.

Frequently Asked Questions

  • What muscles does cycling work?

    Cycling, indoor and outdoor, works more than just your legs and glutes (although studies confirm that cycling does stimulate deep muscles in the quadriceps and hamstrings). Core, shoulders, hamstrings, and calf muscles all play a part in cycling, making it a full-body workout.

  • Does cycling strengthen your core?

    While cycling has the potential to strengthen your core, there is also evidence that improving your core strength off the bike can improve your pedaling performance. For this reason, you might consider committing to cycling as your go-to training modality or as part of a cross-training regimen.

  • Is cycling a low-impact exercise?

    Cycling is a low-impact exercise, meaning it is gentle on the joints and involves fluid motion. However, low-impact does not need to mean low intensity: changing gears, performing intervals, and cycling on an incline can increase the intensity of your cycling workouts. 

  • Is cycling to work enough exercise?

    As with any exercise, getting in some movement is better than nothing, including cycling to work. In fact, one study found that cycling to work was associated with a lower risk of cardiovascular disease, cancer, and all-cause mortality. However frequently you choose to bike to work, take appropriate safety precautions. 

Key Terms

Page Sources
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  5. Target heart rates chart. AHA.