Running and cycling are well-known sports and hobbies that people all over the world enjoy. Both are aerobic exercises that can be done outside, either on city streets or on trails in the woods.
Running usually burns more calories than cycling. But it’s also harder on muscles and joints and has more impact. So, which is best for you? That depends on what you want to do and how you plan to do it.
1. If You Want to Improve Your Cardiovascular Health
Running and cycling are both good for the health of your heart and blood vessels.
Aerobic exercises make your heart stronger so it can pump more oxygen through your body. When you do cardio exercises like running and biking, your heart learns to pump more efficiently the rest of the time.
If you run or ride a bike hard for more than 60 minutes a day, you may need to cut back on how much you do. According to a summary of a number of studies, vigorous exercise for more than 5 hours a week, or 60 minutes a day, can actually start to hurt your heart health.
