Obesity is an issue that is being addressed throughout many countries in the world where the number of persons considered obese continues to increase. For example the U.K. Foresight panel for 2007 predicted that Britain will be an obese nation by 2050. The World Cancer Research Fund in 2007 highlighted that body weight can play a role in the prevention of cancer.
These are just two examples of reasons why many local and national governments around the world are starting to look at ways they can promote cycling as a means to get people actively involved in physical fitness. In October 2008 a city in South Korea with a population of over 500,000 started a program that pays citizens 30,000 won, (approx. $30 USD) if they commute to and from work at least 15 days per month. A healthier nation equals a lower burden on the government with lower health care related costs and the related incidentals.
The evidence is solid that cycling can significantly improve physical fitness. It can reduce the risk of a number of health problems most notably coronary heart disease and cancer, the two leading causes of premature death today. One study even showed that people who rode a bike to work daily showed a 39% lower mortality rate than those who drove a car to work.
Cycling 3 days per week combined with a sensible diet lower in calories will show weight loss and improved physical health. An individuals emotional health is also improved from cycling by reducing the effects of stress and increasing ones level of self confidence. Cycling also helps reduce fatigue and helps people with sleep disorders.
Cycling is a low impact form of exercise, meaning that the joints are not being put under the level of stress that they would be in other forms of exercise such as jogging. This is another reason why overweight individuals should participate in cycling as a means to lose weight. An overweight person can get the same cardiovascular benefit from cycling as one could in jogging but with far less strain on the body.
Local governments around the world have put into place programs to encourage cycling such as offering seminars and workshops. Some have even put in place programs that offer free bicycle repairs as well as sponsoring riding clubs and organizing events such as races and community rides. If an individual does not live in one of these areas and would like to participate in a group type format it is recommended to check with cycling shops for clubs in the area.
In conclusion nations around the world are recognizing the need to promote cycling as a means to improve the health of the nation as well as the health of the planet. Nations are increasingly promoting the use of a bicycle especially where one can replace the use of a car with a bicycle.
Tags: cancer research fund, cardiovascular benefit, coronary heart disease, effects of stress, foresight panel, mortality rate, national governments, obese nation, sensible diet, world cancer research fund