Cycling or walking: Which contributes to a longer, healthier life?
Cycling and walking are two of the most popular forms of exercise, both offering unique benefits for longevity. While both activities promote cardiovascular health and overall well-being, they do so in different ways. Knowing the differences between cycling and walking can help you choose the right exercise for your lifestyle. Here's a look at the impact of cycling and walking on longevity, highlighting key insights into how each activity contributes to a longer, healthier life.
Cardiovascular benefits of cycling
Cycling is an excellent way to boost cardiovascular health. It gets the heart pumping, which improves circulation and lowers the risk of heart disease. Studies show that regular cycling can lower the risk of heart disease by 50% as compared to those who don't cycle. The rhythmic nature of cycling helps build endurance and strengthens the heart muscle, making it an excellent choice for improving cardiovascular fitness.
Walking's impact on mental health
Walking is also a great way to improve mental health. It reduces stress, anxiety, and depression by releasing endorphins, which are natural mood lifters. A study found that people who walked regularly reported a 30% drop in symptoms of depression as compared to those who didn't walk. The simplicity of walking makes it accessible to most people, making it a great way to improve mental well-being.
Caloric burn comparison
When it comes to burning calories, cycling tends to be more effective than walking due to its higher intensity levels. A person weighing around 70 kg burns approximately 300 calories during a moderate one-hour cycling session, as opposed to about 200 calories during an hour-long walk at a brisk pace. For those looking to manage weight through exercise, incorporating cycling could be more beneficial in terms of caloric expenditure.
Joint impact considerations
For people with joint issues or arthritis, walking is a low-impact exercise that is easier on the joints than cycling. It reduces the risk of joint pain or injury while still providing cardiovascular benefits. Cycling, on the other hand, is also low-impact but may require more balance and coordination, which could be difficult for some people with mobility issues.