It seems that BMX bikes and riding are making a comeback – and that the sport could offer a valuable form of fitness for all, especially youngsters.
Following the London Olympics 2012, the greatest increase in sport participation, as surveyed by the Local Government Association, has been cycling and BMX (up 51%). This has been followed by athletics (50%), beach volleyball (50%), handball (50%), swimming (48%) and gymnastics (35%).
Sport for young people
Getting more people involved in sports, especially younger generations, is increasingly important as the UK looks to try and curb its high child obesity numbers. Studies show that even though rates are stabilising, there is still a significant upward trend in overweight and obesity rates for children between the ages of 11 to 15 years.
Therefore it’s important to be able to offer children sports that they will find fun. BMX riding is one of those. Parents shouldn’t feel irresponsible about encouraging children in BMX and if they are concerned about safety, they should ensure they get the right equipment from specialist retailers.
Exercise benefits of BMX
As you might expect, a BMX rider will earn a similar cardio workout to a regular cyclist. You can also expect muscles across your entire body to be worked on, including the abdominals, biceps, calves, glutes, hamstrings, hip flexors, quads, and triceps.
However, unlike a larger road or mountain bike, a BMX is primarily designed around shorter, more intense riding. To improve fitness for BMX riding try interval training.
The best session at the gym is to alternate low-to-moderate intensity with high-intensity training intervals. These short, intense workouts can help to provide a better athletic capacity and condition, as well as improve glucose metabolism and the rate that you burn fat.
If you haven’t thought about BMX as a valuable sport for fitness, maybe it’s time to give it a try?
