Does Cycling Help You Lose Weight? Surprising Truth About Diet!
Question; Does cycling help you lose weight? The answer is yes, but you can’t just eat anything you want even if you’re riding consistently.
You would think if a masters cyclist rides 7-10 hours a week, you can eat whatever you want and still lose weight. I mean who doesn’t like eating a whole pizza and throwing back a bunch of beers after a big ride right? Unfortunately, this is not a good weight loss strategy, I know because I’ve tried it…a lot.
The truth is that riding only accounts for 30% of weight loss with diet accounting for the remaining 70%. I know you’re disappointed, please don’t shoot the messenger. The bottom line is as we get older, our bodies have less muscle to burn calories causing us to gain weight.
Weight gain has been a constant battle for me as I love sweets and alcohol, both major contributors to weight gain.
I have found that staying at your ideal weight is really a mindset. Think of yourself like a race car. Would you put low-quality fuel in your race car or would you run it on race fuel?
Here is how I keep my weight down to the high 150s on my 5’10” frame. These should work for you as well.
- No Fast Food (Except Chipotle): Fast food is a slippery slope. Chipotle gets a pass from me – it’s all about balance, right?
- Sweets in Moderation: Save the sweet treats for when you’re out on the bike. It’s all about timing.
- Lean Proteins Over Red Meat: Chicken, fish, and turkey are my go-to proteins. They keep me satisfied without tipping the scale.
- Mindful Drinking: Cutting back on alcohol is a game-changer. Did you know a single IPA can pack in 250 calories? It adds up.
- MyFitnessPal for Accountability: Tracking my weight and calories with MyFitnessPal has been instrumental. It’s like having a personal coach in your pocket. I have found the MyFitnessPal app to be a great way to keep my weight in check. You can track your weight and the calories consumed all in one place.
Now, onto some weight loss Don’ts:
- Don’t Slash Carbs: Carbs are your friend, especially when it comes to fueling your rides. No carbs equals no energy – a cyclist’s worst nightmare.
- Moderate Weight Loss: Rapid weight loss might seem appealing, but it’s not sustainable. Aim for no more than 2 lbs per week to avoid energy crashes.
- Prioritize Fueling: Remember to fuel up before and during your rides. Your body is a machine – it needs the right fuel to perform.
In conclusion, cycling is a fantastic tool for weight loss, but it’s not a solo act. Pair it with a balanced diet and smart lifestyle choices, and you’ll be cruising towards your weight goals in no time.
Stay strong on the saddle!
Tell us how you maintain your weight in the comment section below!
Find out more about my fitness journey here.
Happy Cycling!
John
