Cyclists May Have More Osteoporosis
You’ve probably heard it before. Exercise is really good for your bones. It makes them stronger. But a new study in Medicine & Science in Sports & Exercise claims cyclists were 2.5 to 3 times more likely to develop osteoporosis or near-osteoporosis. However, biker riders did have less body fat and more muscle. Adding running or weight lifting to a workout can help stimulate the bones and keep them strong; via KiroTV.
In other news, the osteoporosis drug Fosamax has been linked to esophageal cancer. And, getting plenty of vitamin D, the sunshine vitamin, is a great way to keep bones strong and healthy. So is using a weighted vest.
Image credit: semuthutan
Hi Gerry
OK I am confused now. The article abstract suggests that both endurance running and cycling dramatically reduce bone density. So if you don't do any of this stuff you will have healthier bones? I have trouble believing this.
Steve
Hey Steve-
Don't quote me on this. But, what I take away from this is, vary your workout. Do cardio and weight training.
And of course, eat healthfully.
Peace.
-Gerry
Hi Gerry
Yeah this may be another example of 'athletic not the same as healthy'. A large amount of endurance exercise will increase calorie needs, which will tend to pull one towards higher calorie (and lower nutrient density) food.
I guess the question I have is are the bones stronger? if mineral density is lower, does that equate to less absolute mineral, or more "other stuff" in the bones?
I cycled about 120 hours total in 2008 at about 11 mph average, so I guess that is not too extreme. I will just make sure my winter weight training carries over more into the warm weather.
Cheers, Steve
It's easy to see why. As cyclists cycle away, they are building actin and myosin, which require lots of calcium. When they run out of calcium, those osteoclasts will "dig" into the bones.
But, I don't think this just applies to cyclists. Body builders are just as likely to develop osteoporosis.
So maybe they should eat more of the vegetables that are high in calcium, couldn't hurt.
I can definitely see this as being true. You're not getting a full body workout bike cycling, and typically your posture isn't the greatest while doing so.
I like to do a varied workout over about an hour. Basically what it consists of is I start off by running for 15 minutes. I take a 5 minute break of cardio and instead do core exercises. Then I ride the bike for another 15 minutes. Take a break and do another 5 minutes of core exercises. Then I do the glide machine for 15 more minutes, and finally end up with doing 5 minutes of as many pushups as I can do. I try to do this every Monday, Wednesday and Friday. Tuesday and Thursday are saved for a full body assault on the weight machines.
Saturday, if I ever make to the gym, and usually I don't, I'll swim and then hit the hot tub.
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