Bicycle Network: Prevention

It’s time to get the mo’s moving

As Movember comes to an end and men around the nation get ready to depart with their beloved mo’s, they can take comfort in knowing that if they ride all year round, they will prevent the health issues Movember has bought into the spotlight.

The University of Sydney’s, Professor Adrian Bauman, says research continues to prove the strong link between cycling and improvements to men’s mental health.

“There are numerous studies demonstrating that moderate-intensity physical activity can benefit mental health, and reduce the risk of depression.

“Therefore, it is highly likely that cycling will improve the mental health and reduce depression for all mid aged adults; so, for inactive men, ‘getting on your bike’ regularly can help prevent important mental health problems, such as depression, as well as improving mental wellbeing for all of us.

“There are even cycling –related studies that have examined outdoor cycling, which has better connection with the green/outdoors spaces, and may benefit health from the aesthetic element, compared to indoor [stationary] cycling.

The Movember Foundation states on their website that physical activity, like cycling, can potentially assist with reducing the likelihood of prostate cancer, however Professor Bauman cautions that more research needs to done in this area.

“While there is some evidence that regular more vigorous physical activity prevents or reduces the risk of prostate cancer, this evidence is still mixed and not as strong or as clear as physical activity’s role in preventing bowel cancer or breast cancer.

“Further, there is nothing specific about cycling that would add or detract from this mixed evidence for prostate cancer prevention.

“Although cycling is a very good physical activity, and is mostly moderate to vigorous in intensity, it is not clear that we can unequivocally recommend cycling for prostate health.” said Professor Bauman.

Bicycle Network CEO, Harry Barber, encourages all men to jump on their bikes and enjoy the ride.

“Regular riding is an easy way to keep fit. With Movember coming to an end, I encourage all men to ride regularly and promote the benefits it brings to their health, with or without their mo.” said Mr Barber.