According to the Department of Healthy and Human services in the state of Victoria, Australia, biking can help protect us from serious diseases such as stroke, diabetes, obesity, cancer, heart attacks, arthritis and even depression. While the connections may be long winded, the science exists, and living examples are all around us.
If we are so unlucky to already be diagnosed with cancer, cycling can also be our way out and back into health. Consider the story behind Lance Armstrong's incredible battle against testicular cancer: coined the "Lance Armstrong effect" by ScienceDaily, he has created a potentially powerful weapon to fight cancer cells that develop resistance to chemotherapy or radiation.
A large study in Britain on transport habits showed that those who cycled to work, over a five year period, had a 41% lower risk of premature mortality compared to drivers and public transport users. The Cycling Embassy of Denmark even goes further to say that cycling contributes to the wellbeing, welfare and quality of life for citizens, arguing that cycling is good for the economy.
In addition to all the health benefits cycling offers us, riding bikes is also a fun form of exercise and entertainment. There are bike racers and down-hill mountain bikers who consider biking a hobby, and competitive cyclists who consider it a serious sport. There are dozens of national and international competitions, like the Tour de France, that have created a global culture of cycling. More than tying us together, across borders and languages, cycling is one secret key to keeping us healthy and happy across the world. Why not go for a leisurely ride the next time you feel like doing something good for yourself?