People who cycle regularly usually have the average fitness level of people ten years younger.

According to Government research, people who take up cycling:

• improve their aerobic fitness by 11% in just six weeks
• improve leg strength by 8% in 5-6 weeks and by 16% in 4-5 months
• reduce body fat levels and improve muscle mass

The National Heart Forum suggests that five 30-minute cycle rides a week can almost halve the risk of heart disease by reducing blood pressure, cholesterol and fat. Half an hour’s pedalling uses up 120-150 calories. Cycling is a lot kinder to your joints than other sports (Ed.- especially jogging).

See also Tax Incentives for Cyclists