What to Know About Cycling as an Older Adult
Discusses how cycling can improve heart health, reduce blood pressure, and improve cardiorespiratory health for seniors, among other benefits.
Our collection of resources on the health benefits of cycling, active aging, and wellness. We believe in the bicycle as a medical device!
Suggest an ArticleDiscusses how cycling can improve heart health, reduce blood pressure, and improve cardiorespiratory health for seniors, among other benefits.
Covers a range of health benefits including improved joint mobility and cardiovascular health.
An important perspective explaining why cycling alone isn't a weight-bearing exercise for bones and how to supplement for bone health.
Research exploring bone health in senior athletes, including cyclists, and how any exercise is better than none for bone health.
A study published in the journal "Arthritis & Rheumatology" that suggests consistent bicycling throughout adulthood is associated with a lower risk of symptomatic knee osteoarthritis, highlighting cycling's long-term benefits for joint health.
A research paper discussing how cycling can be a source of empowerment, enjoyment, and improved self-esteem for older adults.
Highlights how cycling can reduce feelings of isolation and promote social interaction, leading to greater happiness and quality of life.
Discusses how cycling, as an endurance exercise, can help prevent conditions like diabetes and contribute to maintaining a healthy weight.
Mentions that cycling can reduce body fat and mass, which are important aspects of weight management.
Objective research suggesting that older adults who ride a bicycle tend to have better balance and how cycling may be an intervention to prevent falls.
A Boston University article stating that cycling for at least one hour per week significantly improved older people's balance, potentially making them less vulnerable to falls.
A landmark study of nearly 480,000 UK participants followed for over 13 years showing that cycling reduces dementia risk by 19% and Alzheimer's disease risk by 22% compared to non-active transportation . The research also found that cycling correlated with larger hippocampal volumes on brain imaging , suggesting that promoting active travel modes, particularly cycling, may be associated with better brain health and lower dementia risk throughout the aging process.
Highlights Japan's example of widespread cycling among older adults as a non-pharmacological strategy for aging well, impacting mobility, community ties, and autonomy. Examines the societal benefits of cycling infrastructure for longevity.
Research showing that cyclists who maintain high levels of physical activity throughout their lives have the immunity, muscle mass, and cholesterol levels of people decades younger. Study focuses on telomere protection and cellular aging.
Comprehensive safety advice from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, covering helmets, bike fit, and defensive riding techniques for cyclists of all ages, with special considerations for older adults.
Practical wisdom from experienced cyclists aged 60+ who share ten key strategies for safe, sustainable cycling in later years. Covers essential topics including recovery management, time planning, finding appropriate routes, embracing e-bikes when needed, and riding within your own capabilities rather than comparing to others.
Key insights on optimizing macronutrient intake (protein, carbs, fats) for older adults who are active, including cyclists. Covers the essential nutrients needed to maintain performance, recovery, and health as we age, with specific recommendations for active adults over 50.
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