Stay Healthy and Keep the Momentum of UCLA Bike Month Going!

Karen Hallisey
May 27, 2020
Bike

Every spring, Bruins look forward to Bike Month celebrations at UCLA, and if there was ever a time to cheer on riding, this was it. Biking for transportation and recreation has always been beneficial, but maybe even more so now.

Being active is an important part of staying well, both mentally and physically. With maintaining our health of great concern, biking is an activity you can do to increase overall health, and keep the planet in good shape too by reducing pollution. Hopping on a bike is a healthy habit worth keeping down the road.

Here’s how biking helps our minds and bodies work better.

Boosts Brain Power

Biking makes your brain more fit. Increasing blood flow to the entire body, including the brain, pumps oxygen and nutrients to this vital organ, increasing the brain’s capacity to grow, function, and repair itself. Cognitive functions, like memory, concentration, and awareness, are improved. Biking also enhances creative thinking and sharpens problem-solving skills.

Greater Well-being

Biking eases feelings of stress, anxiety, and depression. It also helps improves mood. The act of riding makes neurochemicals like serotonin and dopamine that make you feel good spike.

Strengthens Immunity

Physical exertion + fresh air increases the immune system’s performance. Biking helps improve your immune response, lowering illness risk, and reducing inflammation.

Supports the Heart and Lungs

Biking stimulates and improves cardiovascular health and respiratory function.

Stronger Muscles

While it’s a low impact exercise, biking has a great physical health payoff. It increases muscle strength and flexibility and improves joint mobility.

Physical Fitness

Riding a bike burns calories, not fuel! Biking is an ideal cardio exercise that boosts metabolism and reduces the risk of diabetes.

Improved Posture and Coordination

That makeshift WFH setup may not be as ergonomically sound as the desk back at the office. Biking stabilizes the body. When biking, you need to keep your back straight and avoid slouching. This physical motion, plus grasping the handlebars and pedaling, keep your body engaged, also strengthening your lower back.

Better Sleep

Sleep plays an important role in health. Quarantine may be disturbing your slumber, so cycle any weird dreams away and get more rest by riding! Riding regularly also helps get your circadian rhythm in sync.

Biking is a lifesaver, not only providing a means to get where you need to go but also offering a path to health and happiness.

Thanks for coming along for the ride during UCLA Bike Month. Let’s keep the momentum going!