Health and Training: THE RISKS AND REWARDS OF CYCLING

All of a sudden, staying healthy has evolved from a peripheral issue we only pay attention to when it directly effects us, to the forefront of our existence. The emergence of COVID-19 has lead to a social emphasis on health, increased hygiene, and social distancing measures; but what does this mean for cyclists?

CYCLING AND THE IMMUNE SYSTEM

There are a host of reasons why cycling is beneficial to health, from a cellular to psychological standpoint. Moderate levels of moderate intensity exercise are related to an increase in immune function, but when that tips over into high-load and high-intensity the risks of infection rise again.

This temporary immunosuppression (and/or peripheral migration of immune cells, depending which study you read!) result in increased susceptibility for infection, which is particularly evident during periods of competition, though studies disagree as to whether the intensity and