The mental health benefits of cycling

Not only is cycling good for your physical wellbeing and the environment, but cycling also benefits your mental health.  There has been a wide range of research on the various mental health benefits of cycling over the years, so we’ve put together a blog on how cycling can improve your mental health, the research into it, and why cycling can help.

How does cycling improve mental health?

It’s no secret that exercise is good for both our physical and mental health, and cycling and mental health research has shown there are several benefits to getting on the saddle:

1. Reduces stress

Day-to-day life can be overwhelming, but getting out on your bike can help you better manage daily stress. General cardiovascular exercise reduces stress, and cycling is proven to reduce anxiety.

2. Boosts concentration

Biking to work? Studies show employees who cycle to work are more productive, with boosted energy levels and the ability to concentrate for longer periods. Cycling also improves problem-solving skills, which is handy in almost all lines of work.

3. Contributes to a better night’s sleep

Cycling has been proven to reduce levels of cortisol (stress hormones) in the body, which can disturb a restful and deep sleep. It also supports the increase of serotonin, which can improve sleep. In addition, cycling can help stabilise your circadian rhythm, which in turn can improve sleep patterns.

4. Improves your mood

Many riders talk about a ‘cycling high’ and science has proven that this is a real thing. After a ride, you’ll experience a spike in neurochemicals such as serotonin and dopamine. Not only do they improve your mood, but this hit of endorphins can stimulate the same areas of the brain as a painkiller.

Research also shows that 83% of cyclists experience reduced levels of depression after consistently cycling for a month, and those who cycled to work took fewer sick days, too.

5. Helps with anxiety

Getting out and about in the great outdoors has been proven to help with anxiety, and being outside in the natural light can also help with conditions like seasonal affective disorder (SAD). Studies show that people who cycle to work are also 15% less likely to be prescribed medication to treat anxiety and depression.

As well as this, being outside improves your vitamin D intake. Some studies have even seen individuals experience reduced blood pressure from a short bike ride.

Why is cycling good for mental health?

Any activity is better than none at all but cycling has some particular strengths.

Firstly, you’re outside. There’s lots of evidence to suggest that exercising outside is more effective for mental health than exercising indoors or in a gym. It also generally works out cheaper. Bikes have a large second-hand market and cycling is generally accessible and affordable thanks to schemes like Cycle2Work.

Lastly, because cycling can easily be built into a routine, such as a commute, you’re more likely to stick to it and have the choice to ride alone or in a group.

Is cycling or running better for mental health?

Cycling and running are, of course, both good for your mental and physical wellbeing, and there’s no straight answer that will apply to everyone. Whether cycling or running is better for your mental health will depend on the individual, as the answer will be whichever you enjoy more and, therefore, can be more consistent with.

Consider factors such as your current exercise ability, your fitness goals, and which will fit better into your lifestyle. For example, if you’re just starting out on your exercise journey at a lower fitness level, you may find cycling easier to start with than running. There’s always the option of combining the two, so you’ll experience the benefits of both!

Specialist cycling insurance through Cycleplan

Before you head out on your first ride, you may want to consider protecting your bike and its accessories with specialist cycling insurance.

Specialist cycling insurance through Cycleplan provides cover if your bike is lost, damaged or stolen, providing you report it to the police within 24 hours, and can include public liability and personal accident cover too.

Find out more about specialist cycling insurance or get a quick online quote today.