A Brief Education in Cycling

For most of us, cycling is a distant, even obscure sport. We know very little, if anything, about it. While a bicycle is a familiar object, one we learn to ride as children and continue to enjoy time on as adults, it is not often one we associate with athletic activity. Super athlete Lance Armstrong has brought some attention to the sport in recent years with his superior performance at the Tour de France and other cycling events. Nevertheless, it remains low on the radar of most sports fans around the world.

This lack of attention, however, is not due to lack of importance or lack of benefit. In fact, cycling is an extremely interesting sport to follow and a very healthy sport to practice.

The bike itself was invented as a means of transport. Beyond the function of getting riders from one place to another, it also serves as a primary piece of equipment in sport and athletics.

Cycling has not always been a minor sport. In fact, cycling races date back to the 19th century. The Tour de France, which began in 1903, is a reminder of the "Golden Age of Cycling" which took place around the world from the 1890s to the 1950s. Since that time, the sport has faded from the headlines. Nevertheless, competition continues.

There are many different types of races and competitions. Events may last for minutes, hours and even days, and competition may be individual or team. Mountain biking has become increasingly popular in recent years (even being included as an Olympic sport), as have road racing and indoor dome competition.

Cycling is not just for the pros. In fact, it is a great option for those looking to begin a fitness program or to change the fitness program they currently use. Popularity of the sport is increasing among even the most amateur athletes.

The sport offers tons of benefits, just like most physical activity. It is linked to improved physical and mental health.

Like running, cycling is a great way to improve cardiovascular fitness. It benefits the legs, buttocks and abdomen among other parts of the body while getting heart rates up to burn calories and to lose fat. Easier on the joints than impact sports, cycling is a great cardio alternative for those with arthritis or past sports injuries. Because it is generally practiced sitting down, it is an activity within reach of all.

This sport can be practiced both indoors in gyms and in increasingly popular spinning classes. Outside, the options are endless. Cycling is a relaxing and beneficial activity ideal for a weekend afternoon.

If you don't know much about cycling yet, it may be time to start doing some research. Check your TV Guide to find out when an event will be featured on ESPN or another sports channel, and head to your local bike shop to see what equipment it has to offer. You may be surprised to find out how much you enjoy this lesser-known sport.

Damian Papworth loves cycling, both as a recreational past-time and in amateur competition. He knows how crucial hydration in the sport is so he launched the Cycling Water Bottle website. You can visit it at http://cyclingwaterbottleshop.com