Research from an American university points out that cycling improves mental health and disposition
Research conducted by scientists at Dartmouth University in the United States has shown that the mode of locomotion has a direct impact on the emergence or not of stress structures. The study was done before the pandemic hit.
The scientists accompanied 275 Americans, most of whom work in the technology field. Most participants spent 40 to 60 minutes each morning driving through traffic before reaching their stop. Another smaller number made this journey on foot or by bicycle.
The research found that the way they moved had a direct impact on whether or not they experienced stressful situations among the individuals monitored in the survey, with an influence on how they produced during the working day. Those who opted to walk or cycle had a calmer start to the day, with more energy and agility to complete tasks.
Influence of physical activity on routine
The iMEDato psychologist, Mônica Mafra, believes that the initiative to go on foot or bike work generates benefits for health in general. “Research shows the positive impact on the working life of workers. Among the many positive aspects, we can say that the habit of walking or cycling to work makes people have a less sedentary life and, with that, earn in terms of physical and mental health,” he says.
Effect of traffic on health mental
The orthopedic specialist in spine Daniel Oliveira, director of NOT, recalls that the beginning of the day in cities, in traffic, often with great movement and traffic jams, for drivers or those using public transport means a long time to reach the intended destination destination.
“First thing in the morning people are worried and afraid of being late for appointments, and that makes them more angry and stressed. Everything we feel also directly influences the way we work and produce,” he reflects.
Mônica Mafra points out that, in times of stress, the body releases adrenaline and cortisol, which cause feelings of fear, irritation and nervousness. “We can say that, in the morning, traffic can, in some people, depending on the time of their life, trigger one of these sensations, which almost always interferes with the rest of the day”.
Endorphins and good mood
Walking or cycling, even without thinking about playing sports or such physical activity, already releases a certain dose of endorphins, which, in itself, leaves the individual in a better mood and mood. This too has a positive impact on productivity, adds Daniel Oliveira.
Mônica shares the orthopedic surgeon’s statement: “Going to work on foot or by bicycle makes employees arrive at the company more willing to face daily challenges and, consequently, more involved”, reiterates the psychologist.
Gabriel says this is a lifestyle that is good for him. “We have the impression that we gain time by going somewhere faster, but this time that we gain in the car, in app vehicles or on the bus, we enjoy it less. Walking or cycling is a kind of therapy, it’s good for you to the body. health. I consider it as a preparation to start the day, as if it were a passage. It improves my disposition, my mood, it takes away that most difficult part of having just woken up, of observing what is happening at the start the day and, also, to release all the stress of work on the way home. It takes a little longer, but it also reduces the stress,” he says.
In addition to the gains in relation to mental health, Daniel Oliveira also mentions the improvement of the cardiorespiratory system, the strengthening of joints and muscles, the contribution in the prevention of osteoporosis, as well as the control or reduction of weight. “The benefits are felt in the short, medium and long term, in favor of healthier aging and away from various chronic diseases”.
consult an expert
For those who want to start walking or cycling to work, but are sedentary, one of the first steps, according to Mônica Mafra, is to go through medical exams and evaluation. “After that, create a routine with a daily goal. It’s important to respect your body and start slowly, and as you feel more willing, increase the pace and intensity,” advises the psychologist.
Tips to start cycling or walk
Orthopedist Daniel Oliveira, who is also a bicycle lover, gives advice for those who want to start using the skinny one to get to work:
- Invest in a quality bike that fits your size to avoid aches and pains;
- Have a saddlebag to store belongings and personal items and keep them safe while traveling;
- Always wear a helmet. It is the main element of safety of every cyclist;
- Have a quality padlock to avoid theft headaches;
- Wear light, quick-drying clothing to avoid excessive sweating;
- Periodically carry out maintenance on the bicycle;
- Avoid roads with heavy traffic and always be aware of traffic to avoid accidents.
And for those who want to start the journey:
- Give preference to flat places and always on sidewalks;
- Invest in good, comfortable sneakers;
- Prefer lighter fabrics that facilitate perspiration;
- Avoid walking with a lot of weight in your backpack and, above all, adapt correctly to your body to minimize back pain.
Text originally published in Revista Bicicleta (Ed 129).
By Bicicleta magazine
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Ben Stock is a lifestyle journalist and author at Gossipify. He writes about topics such as health, wellness, travel, food and home decor. He provides practical advice and inspiration to improve well-being, keeps readers up to date with latest lifestyle news and trends, known for his engaging writing style, in-depth analysis and unique perspectives.
