Cycling vs Running
Cycling vs running, which one is the? I’m sure we’ve all had a conversion about it. They are probably the most popular cardiovascular sports in the world. Both are great for improving physical fitness and overall health but there are always arguments on both direction. At the end of the day, if you run or cycle regularly or do any other cardio sports, have fun! I run and cycle multiple time a week and I’ll never be able to settle with only one sport. Anyway, I want to write down some of the most common topics that come up when talking about Cycling vs Running.
Impact on Joints
One of the biggest differences between cycling and running is the impact on joints. Running is a high-impact exercise that can put a lot of stress on your knees, ankles, and hips. Cycling, on the other hand, is a low-impact exercise that is gentle on your joints.
If you have joint problems, have a little of extra weight, or are recovering from an injury, cycling may be a better choice for you. Cycling is a great exercise and doesn’t putt unnecessary strain on your joints. If you are starting run, I always tell people 2 things: First be patient. Start slow, short runs at the beginning and gradually increase the time, distance and speed. Second: Buy proper running shoes! Seems obvious to some, but I see everyday people running with no appropriate shoes.
Calories Burned
Both cycling and running are great for burning calories and losing weight. However, running burns more calories than cycling. This is because running requires more energy to move your body through space.
According to Harvard Health, an average weight person can burn around 20%-25% more calories in 30 minutes of running at a moderate pace, vs the same person in 30 minutes of cycling at a moderate pace.
Muscle Engagement and building
Cycling and running engage different muscle groups. Running works your lower body, including your calves, quads, and glutes, as well as your core and upper body. Road cycling primarily works your legs, including your quads, hamstrings, and calves.
Probably a topic that comes up the most. You’ve probably heard sentences like: Cycling makes you legs bigger, Running makes you loss upper body muscle, Running will make you loss your breast, etc. I’m not an expert or a doctor but I’ll talk from my own experience. I’ve seen my body gain muscle or loss muscle practicing the same sports and it all came up to how I was practising it and what I was eating. My body adapts to circumstances, when I was training for long distance races like Ironmans, Ultra marathons, my body adapted to those conditions. When I train more explosively and short distances my muscles grow in size.
Bottom line, of course your body will change, it become more efficient for the training and sports you are practising the most. You are doing long distance running or cycling? You’ll most likely loss weight and be fitter. A bit part of this will be your nutrition as well.
Convenience and Accessibility
Both cycling and running are convenient exercises that can be done almost anywhere. Running requires nothing more than a pair of running shoes, which make it probably the most convenient sport ever. This is probably the main reason I run during work days and cycle the weekend. Going for a bike ride requires a bit more time to take the most out of it. For running, is very easy and if you only have 30min you can still get a good workout.
Mental health
Finally, let’s have a small section for Mental health. Sport is great for it! No matter if you cycle or run or do any other sports. People that exercise regularly are happier (data source: my personal observation :) ).
Cycling and running helps with stress reduction, boost brain function, and better sleep quality. Regular exercise releases endorphins, which reduce stress and improve mood. Both exercises help to improve cognitive function, memory, concentration, and decision-making abilities.
So, just go run or go cycle! The answer if cycling or running is better is both are great! The only important factor is that you have fun.