Research suggests anything from 50-100% of people who make New Year’s resolutions will have broken them by the start of February. The good news is that even if your good intentions have already fallen by the wayside, it’s not too late to do something about it and get fit in time for spring.
If you’ve still got a few pounds to lose after the festive season, cycling and walking are great ways of getting in shape. Just 30 minutes of either form of exercise can burn around 150 calories – as well as giving you the government-recommended amount of daily exercise. Better yet, a 15-minute bike ride to and from work each day burns off the equivalent of 11 pounds of fat per year.
Regular exercise through cycling and walking has some great health benefits too, lowering your blood pressure, strengthening muscles and bones and reducing your chances of getting illnesses such as heart disease, osteoporosis and diabetes. It’s also better for your lungs – both as a form of aerobic exercise – and because you won’t be sat in your car breathing in more concentrated fumes.
And if you’re suffering from the winter blues, cycling and walking can be great stress-busters; exercise releases lots of feel-good chemicals called endorphins. On top of which, you’ll sleep better at night and, as your blood pumps through your body faster, your brain will get more oxygen helping you to think more clearly.
Don’t forget that the Big Track (Nottingham’s waterside car free route) is great for cycling and walking and connects lots of places across the city including major employers and arts and leisure venues, as well as being perfect for a weekend bike ride or stroll.
Whatever you do it’s not too late to dust off those January resolutions and make a positive change for spring!