THE BENEFITS OF INDOOR CYCLING & CALORIES BURNED

Apr 25, 2012 | By Heather Holtschlag

Read more: http://www.livestrong.com/article/120918-benefits-spinning-calories-burned/#ixzz2PVsjmryb

Indoor cycling is a popular exercise performed on a stationary bike usually in a class format led to music by a certified instructor. The program takes the class through a simulated tour of hills and flat roads. During the class, you set your own pace, meaning your workout is as easy or as hard as you make it. There are several benefits to a the workout, including calorie burning.

IMPROVING CARDIOVASCULAR HEALTH

Physical inactivity can have a huge impact on your cardiovascular health, leading to cardiovascular disease. The American Heart Association recommends that all healthy adults, age 18-65, get at least 30 minutes of moderate intensity exercise five days a week. Cycling of any kind is one of the activities the AHA suggests for improving your cardiovascular health.

GENTLE ON THE BACK

According to Spine-Health, indoor cycling is a type of low-impact aerobic exercise that is not only considered highly effective when done regularly, but also is gentle on the back. This is because many people prefer to stay seated, which takes the weight off of their bodies. In addition, this type of exercise, when performed for 30 to 40 minutes, increases production of endorphins, the body's natural pain killer, which may help eliminate a person's need for medication if he has chronic back pain.

CALORIE BURN AND CONSISTENCY

A 150-pound person who participates in an indoor cycling class for 45 minutes will burn more than 360 calories, according to Fitness magazine. This makes indoor cycling a popular choice for people who want a low-impact activity with a high-calorie burn. In addition, because indoor cycling requires only one type of motion, there are no choreographed routines to remember as in other types of aerobics classes.

GOOD FOR WALKERS

Indoor cycling provides benefits for individuals who also like to walk for exercise, according to Weight Watchers. It will improve your coordination, which will aid in the prevention of injury when you walk; build lower body strength, which will help prevent your legs from becoming too tired too early during your walks; and help strengthen your core, leading to better posture when you walk.

BUILD LEG STRENGTH

The program is also an effective exercise for building and toning lower body strength, particularly in the calves, buttocks and quadriceps, and the muscle tendons, according to Alive. It's especially beneficial if you want a cardiovascular workout that will improve your legs without any type of weight bearing exercise.