Indoor cycling is as challenging as it is exhilarating. Being very intense, you’re likely to see results really fast, and to gain the full benefits, you need to commit to regular training.
What muscles are used in indoor cycling?
- Core. Use your core to stabilize your body throughout the class, which helps to achieve overall balance, especially when you’re standing.
- Back. Maintain a strong, stable spine throughout the class, which will help to strengthen and tone your back muscles.
- Glutes. Feel your glutes working with each pump, especially when you stand up from your seat, do an incline, or increase the resistance.
- Quadriceps. Your quadriceps will be the main muscles used as you pedal and climb hills, leading to strong, toned legs.
- Hamstrings. Cycling helps to strengthen and loosen your hamstrings, which lift the pedal up with each cycle and stabilize your joints.
- Lower legs. You’ll work your calves with each cycle, which helps to protect your ankles and feet while cycling and during everyday activities.
Benefits of indoor cycling
Build mental strength
Much of what we do physically lies in what our thoughts tell us we can do. By
pushing yourself beyond your perceived limits and seeing what you are capable of, you may gain more confidence in your abilities and push yourself harder in other areas of your life.
Cardiovascular benefits
Indoor cycling is a wonderful way to improve cardiovascular health. It’s similar to other forms of cardio, such as running, swimming, and elliptical training. It’s ideal for people who want a cardio workout without putting too much stress on their joints.
Burn calories
Indoor cycling classes are a great way to burn calories. Depending on the difficulty and duration of the class, you can burn 400 to 600 calories per class. You’ll have to attend classes three to six times per week to see weight loss results.
Come into balance
Riding a stationary bike reduces your risk of injury and makes you less prone to falls, due to the stability needed during the training, which helps you build strong abdominal muscles.
Last, but not least, you can train in your home’s comfort, all you need is a stationary bike!
Sources: Health Line
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