Health Benefits of Cycling that will make you desirous to Ride a bike
World Bicycle day is marked to foster the prominence of bicycles. The day is celebrated on June 3 to recognize the versatility, singularity and benefits of cycling.
History
The history of World Bicycle day dates back to April 2018. The United Nations General Assembly passed the resolution on this day and declared June 3 as the World Bicycle day.
Further, the initiative to establish this day was taken by Turkmenistan along with support of 56 other countries. Furthermore, the day was accepted by all the 193 member states of UN General Assembly.
Besides, the foundation of this day was laid by United States based Professor Leszek Sibilski. Since, he initiated a grassroots campaign with his sociology class for promoting the UN Resolution for World Bicycle Day.
How Bicycles has evolved over the years
Bicycles have been around for about 600 years, and they’ve undergone tremendous changes to become the one we know today.
The flagship brands has evolved over the years in the making of bicycles and made high-end bicycles for riders.
Giovanni Fontana creates the first land vehicle
Heading back to year 1418, Giovanni Fontana created the first land vehicle powered by humans. The unique invention had four wheels and used a clever system of ropes and gears to make it move.
1817: Laufmaschine was invented
In 1817, Baron Karl Von Drais of Germany designed and built a wooden vehicle with two wheels that people could straddle and move by walking quickly. He called it the “running machine” or laufmaschine. It was like a bike but without pedals.
1839: The First powered bike was introduced
In 1839, in Scotland, a blacksmith named Kirkpatrick Macmillan invented the first bike that could move by itself. The bike was quite heavy, weighing around 56 pounds, so the riders needed to be strong and fit to ride it.
1870: The age of Giant Front Wheels
The “penny-farthing” or “high wheeler” was the first-ever machine to be called “bicycle.”
1890s: Mass production starts and entrance to Olympics
The 90s era marked as the golden age for cycling as mode of transport and sport. It was during this decade that well-known bike companies like Raleigh and Schwinn started.
This made bicycles more available to people and they loved it so much that bicycle racing gained popularity.
Eventually, this sport got included in the first modern Olympic Games in 1896.
1980: Mountain Bikes introduced
In 1980s mountain bikes and BMX bikes were introduced. In addition, these bikes had multiple gears and were lighter to ride.
21st Century Bikes
In 21st century this industry stirred up as materials like titanium and carbon fiber was brought into use. Moreover, these materials made bicycles lighter and stronger as compare to the earlier ones.
Finally, the different types of biking include mountain bikes, road bikes, hybrids, cruisers, and more.
Health Benefits of Cycling
Weight Control: As per experts, cycling reduces fat and builds muscle. Research has shown that a good hour of cycling can help in burning 400 to 1000 calories, subject to the intensity and the rider’s metabolism.
Improved Heart Problems: As a regular activity, cycling reduces the risk of cardiac arrest and high blood pressure.
Cycling Boost Lungs’: The lungs get a regular supply of fresh oxygen during cycling. Further, the increased breathing rate allows the development of muscles around the lungs.
Boosts Mental Health: Cycling helps in relieving stress, anxiety and depression. Moreover, cycling helps in building social network.
World Bicycle Day Celebration
Cyclists and sportsperson all over the world celebrate this day in their own ways. Some celebrate this day as organizing events, ride competitions or friendly rides with fellow cyclists. While, others celebrate this day conducting campaigns promoting cycling.
World Bicycle day serves as a reminder to develop an eco-friendly environment and build a healthier world to live.
