Cycling in Hong Kong

What would happen to our city if everyone decided to hop on a bike one day? Advocates fantasize about an eco-friendly and ultra-convenient mode of transport that would contribute to a vibrant street-level community and ease the congestion on our overtaxed road system. But is it really that simple? Below, we highlight five arguments for a bike-friendly city that might just compel urban planners and lawmakers to revisit their blueprints.

It Could Improve Your Health

It may seem obvious, but we’re going to spell it out for you—cycling can do tons to improve your health. According to health center Sports Performance’s physiotherapy manager, Aaron Smith, the direct and very obvious benefits of cycling are not only a stronger cardiovascular system (which keeps your heart and lungs healthy) but also very good strength training for the legs. A strong cardiovascular system can result in a lower chance of heart disease, among other illnesses.

But can’t we get the same benefits from other forms of exercise, too? Well, yes and no. “One of the main differences between cycling and other cardiovascular activities like running and walking is that with cycling, you put less strain on your joints,” Smith explains. So for someone who’s older, or has damaged joints or arthritis, taking up cycling would be a much gentler activity than taking up jogging. But if you don’t have those kinds of limitations, then running and walking are also valid activities that can help you attain similar health benefits.

The calories burned in an average cycling session depends on the intensity of the ride, Smith continues. “If the rider pedals at a lower resistance and a lower RPM (revolutions per minute), then he or she will be expending less energy than someone who is pedaling with more tension and at a faster speed,” Smith adds. But generally speaking—and this applies to any type of exercise across the board—one needs to be working out at least three to four times a week at 20- to 30-minute intervals to truly be getting the benefits of a healthy lifestyle.

As much as cycling can help us maintain a fitter frame and healthier body, we also have to make sure we take up the sport safely, so that the risks don’t outweigh the benefits. For instance, city cycling comes with its own set of dangers. Traffic, for one, is a major obstacle on the road. The roads in Hong Kong are quite narrow and unforgiving, Smith says. So outdoor cyclists should remember to wear their helmets at all times in order to maximize their safety. Air pollution is another factor; cycling on a hazy, smoggy day in Hong Kong is probably not a good idea. But during those times, cyclists can head indoors and practice on bikes at the gym instead.