by Michelle Wilkinson

Created on: November 27, 2009

Cycling is such a popular sport because it is an activity that virtually anyone can do. It is an activity that you generally learn to do as a child and you never forget how to cycle, no matter how long you avoid riding your bike for. You may be a bit out of practise, but it is never too late to get your bike out of the shed or garage and to go for a ride. If you don't have a bike you can always purchase a new bike for relatively little money, and it may even save you money in the long run, if you abandon your car as a result.

Indeed, many people are finding that their resources are increasingly strained and thus looking to save money wherever they can. If you are looking to spend less it helps to reduce your car usage, since it can be very expensive to run a car. You need to pay to have it serviced, for fuel and tax, unlike you would for a bike which is pretty cheap to maintain. Once you've bought a bike, and maybe a pair of cycling shorts or tights, you won't have to spend that much to look after it. You need to make sure the tyres are pumped up and that the chain is oiled, but if anything goes wrong it is likely to be much cheaper to replace than if something goes wrong with your car.

By abandoning your car you will also be helping the environment, since bikes don't emit any fumes and thus you can feel good about yourself for that reason.

Getting out of your car and onto your bike will also benefit your health, since cycling is an effective cardiovascular exercise which doesn't require a great deal of fitness to take up. The more regularly you cycle the easier you will find it - the further you will be able to ride and the faster you will go - so that you actually feel proud of the improvement in your performance. Cycling is good for your mind and your body, helping you to focus and making you feel less depressed, as well as strengthening your heart and enabling you to manage your weight. Indeed, the fact that cycling burns quite a few calories and allows you to eat more than you otherwise could is one reason why people decide to take up cycling.

All of these factors contribute to the popularity of cycling, as does professional cycling success and bike-friendly governmental policies. There is also the fact that cycling is fun! You can spend time with friends or family; or go exploring on your own, if you choose. You get to breathe in fresh air and see the country, and so what better reason to get on your bike?

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