Running v/s cycling: Which is better for your joint health?
What's the story
Running and cycling are two of the most popular forms of exercise, and both have something unique to offer when it comes to bone health.
While running is a high-impact activity that strengthens bones, it can also stress the joints.
Cycling, on the other hand, is low-impact and is often recommended for those with joint issues.
Let's find out how both impact joint health.
Knee health
Impact on knees
Running puts a lot of stress on the knees, given its high-impact nature.
This can cause wear and tear with time, particularly if you don't maintain proper form or don't give enough time for recovery between sessions.
On the other hand, cycling provides a smoother motion that doesn't strain the knees, making it the preferred choice for people with existing knee problems or those wanting to prevent them.
Bone strength
Bone density benefits
Running has been proven to enhance bone density due to its weight-bearing nature. The impact from running causes bones to grow stronger over time.
But the downside is that it adds stress to your joints.
Cycling cannot give you the same bone-strengthening benefits as it is non-weight-bearing, but it offers cardiovascular benefits without placing any stress on bones.
Injury potential
Risk of injury
The risk of injury is different between running and cycling due to their impact on joints.
Runners can get injured like shin splints or stress fractures due to repetitive impact forces.
Cyclists are less prone to joint-related injuries but need to be alert about the risk of falls or accidents that may get them other types of injuries.
Joint flexibility
Flexibility and mobility
Cycling helps to build flexibility in the lower body muscles without putting much pressure on the joints. This can help improve your mobility overtime.
On the other hand, running requires more flexibility in muscles like hamstrings and calves. But, it can limit mobility if not paired with stretching exercises.
This is because of muscle tightness from the repetitive motion involved.