Running Versus Cycling as a form of exercise

The two most common forms of cardio activity for most people, are probably running and cycling. Here is a look at what effects these workouts will have on the body.

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1) Burning calories

If you are simply looking at burning calories, then running is probably a better way to achieve this compared to cycling. This is because running is generally more intense and taxing on the body. For example, for a 90kg man, running burns about 755 calories per hour compared to cycling, which burns about 364 calories in the same period.

2) Injuries Sustained

Both sports do have their fair share of injuries. However, the nature of the injuries are quite different.

For example, in cycling, injuries are mainly sustained when you encounter accidents or crash or fall off your bike. The sport itself does not really cause wear and tear to the actual body itself.

On the other hand, running, as a more intense sport, is much more likely to cause wear and tear injuries, as well as muscle soreness or damage – especially if you overdo it.

3) Developing Stamina

Generally, running is a sport that needs more practice than cycling, in order to build up stamina. This typically means that beginner cyclists can typically last a longer distance compared to beginner runners. So if you prefer a sport that is good for exploring and will provide you with the adrenaline rush that you want, without using much stamina at the same time, then perhaps cycling may be better for you.

On the other hand though, running through scenic trails and settings of pristine natural beauty can be very therapeutic as well – if you are willing to work on your endurance.

4) Other Benefits

Both sports will definitely provide you with other benefits. For starters, they both will help you reduce anxiety and stress and at the same time, they are great in helping you to get your energy levels and adrenaline pumping.

Running is also a great way to exercise the heart and the muscles. As such, it helps to increase your blood circulation round your body and reduces your chances of sustaining heart-related diseases such as heart attacks and strokes.

On the other hand, cycling will help to improve your body’s muscle strength, as well as your mobility and coordination. This is because for example, coordination is needed to sync the leg movements together with the pedals, so that you will not fall off the bike.

Overall Comments

Depending on what you are hoping to get out of your exercise, you will certainly reap benefits from either running or cycling. Or else, if you can’t decide what you want, then take up both – and you can probably reap double the benefits.