Stop the presses – a study from the University of Copenhagen has found that riding to work burns as much fat as a gym session.
Professor of Biomedical Sciences, Bente Stallknecht, said that the results are a boon for people who are physically inactive and time poor.
“Our results show that it is possible to combine transport to and from work with effective physical exercise,” he said.
“This is good news to the many overweight people who may not have the time or inclination to join a fitness centre, because they also have to pick up their children and cook dinner after work.”
130 overweight participants took part in the study and were split into four groups.
One group rode to and from work – on average a 14km round trip – five days a week. Two groups exercised five times a week, one at moderate intensity and one at high intensity. While the final group was a control which did no physical activity.
The findings at the completion of the six-month study found that riding to work burnt fat more effectively than moderate intensity exercise, and very nearly as well as five high-intensity gym sessions.
“Jump on the bike and enjoy the morning ride to work,” said Professor Stallknecht.
This latest research is just another reason why riding a bike is the only way to go to work.
We know that it’s quicker – 5km to 10km ride to work will only take 15 to 30 minutes on average. Peak-hour city trips up to 10km are generally faster by bike than any other form of transport, door to door.
We know that it will improve and maintain your health, and you will save money.
Riding a bike is free, but now we know you can stop worrying about those expensive gym fees that get debited every month.