How Many Calories Does Cycling Burn?

Cycling is a great way to get fit and stay in shape. Cycling is a low-impact sport that requires little energy expenditure. 

This makes it ideal for those who want to exercise without putting too much strain on their joints.

But how many calories can you burn when cycling? And is there a way to increase the amount that you burn?

It can be tricky to find this information out and leaves many of us sitting on our bikes or approaching the gym with no idea how our workouts will go and how many calories we can burn.

Well, no more! This article will discuss how many calories you can burn while cycling and the benefits to your health.

Keep reading to find out how many calories you could burn by cycling. 

How Many Calories Do You Burn Cycling?

The amount of calories burned depends on several factors including the intensity level of cycling and the duration of the ride.

On average, people burn 300 calories an hour when cycling. Of course, this does vary, so let’s take a look at how it can vary.

For example, if you are riding at an easy pace for 25 minutes, you would burn approximately 100 calories. 

However, if you were to increase the intensity by increasing your speed or distance covered, you would burn more calories.

If you are new to cycling, start with shorter rides and gradually build up as your stamina improves. 

If you are not sure about the number of calories you burn during a cycle, you can use a calorie counter.

These devices have been designed specifically for cyclists. They measure the number of calories you burn based on the length and intensity of your ride.

How To Increase Calories Burned During Cycling

There are various ways to increase the number of calories you lose when cycling.

One of the most effective ways to increase your calorie-burning is to add resistance to your bike. 

Resistance training involves using weights to strengthen muscles. It helps make your body stronger and increases your metabolism.

You can also use a heart rate monitor to track your progress.

A heart rate monitor measures the number of beats per minute (bpm) and calculates the number of calories you’re burning. Use this information to set goals for yourself.

Adding hills to your bike ride can also burn more calories. Biking uphill takes more effort than pedaling downhill.

As a result, it uses more energy and raises your heart rate.

Increasing your speed while cycling can help burn more calories. Riding faster means you’ll need to work harder. 

Your legs will be working harder to propel you forward which causes them to contract and relax more often.

This results in increased muscle activity and higher metabolic rates.

Another way to increase your calorie burn is to incorporate interval training into your routine.

Interval training involves alternating between periods of high-intensity exercise and lower intensity exercise.

For example, you could alternate between 30 seconds of hard pedaling followed by 10 seconds of rest. This type of workout is known as Tabata intervals.

Intervals like these can boost your metabolism and help you burn more calories.

Benefits Of Cycling

There are numerous benefits associated with cycling. Some of these include:

Improved Cardiovascular System

Cycling is one of the best exercises for improving your heart rate. It also helps to lower blood pressure and cholesterol levels.

Weight Loss

When combined with a healthy diet and regular exercise, cycling has proven to be effective in weight management.

Reduces Stress

Riding a bike provides a sense of freedom and enjoyment. It allows you to clear your mind from all the worries and stresses of everyday life.

Improves Mental Health 

Studies show that people who regularly participate in physical activities such as cycling tend to live longer than other individuals.

Helps Prevent Osteoporosis

Cycling strengthens bones and prevents bone deterioration.

Increases Lung Capacity

Cycling increases the volume of air that enters and leaves your lungs. This helps to strengthen your respiratory muscles.

Improves Muscle Strength 

Cycling builds strong leg muscles and helps to reduce fat deposits.

Improves Balance 

Bike riding improves your balance and coordination.

Boosts Self-Esteem

Cycling allows you to explore nature and enjoy its beauty.

Promotes Social Interaction 

Cycling encourages you to interact with others and meet new friends.

Helps Control Diabetes

Exercise plays an important role in managing diabetes.

Studies show that people with type 2 diabetes who engage in moderate activity three times a week lose more weight than those who don’t exercise.

Improves Sleep Quality

Research shows that cycling reduces insomnia and promotes better sleep.

Enhances Mood

Cycling boosts your spirits and increases feelings of happiness.

Relieves Depression

People suffering from depression often find relief when they take part in sports like cycling.

Lowers Risk Of Cancer 

Regular exercise lowers the risk of developing certain types of cancers.

Protects Against Alzheimer’s Disease

Studies suggest that cycling may help protect brain cells against damage caused by Alzheimer’s disease.

Helps Maintain Good Vision

Cycling improves eyesight because it requires close attention to detail.

Helps Keep Joints Flexible

Cycling helps to maintain flexibility in your hips, knees, and ankles. This keeps them free from injury.

Strengthens Muscles

Cycling improves your overall muscular strength.

Improves Posture

Cycling helps to improve your posture.

Helps To Relieve Back Pain 

Cycling helps to ease back pain.

Helps Improve Circulation 

Cycling helps to increase blood flow throughout your body.

How Many Calories Does Indoor Cycling Burn?

The number of calories burned during indoor cycling depends on several factors including:

Your Fitness Level

The higher your fitness level, the greater the calorie expenditure.

Type Of Bike

If you are using a stationary bike, then you will need to work harder to get the same amount of energy expended as if you were using a recumbent bike.

Duration Of Workout

Longer workouts require more effort but also result in more calories being burned.

Weight

You can expect to burn more calories while exercising at a lower intensity or for shorter periods of time.

Heart Rate

Higher heart rates mean that you will be burning more calories per minute.

Conclusion

Cycling is one of the best forms of aerobic exercise available.

It not only burns calories but also strengthens your cardiovascular system and improves your mental health. If you want to get fit and stay healthy, consider adding cycling to your routine.