Today, the history of the bicycle, which has become widely used especially in recent times, actually dates back 200 years. The first bicycle was invented in 1818 by Barontazi Sauerbrun. However, this bicycle was not exactly the same as those we use today. It had two wheels but lacked pedals and gears. After mounting the bicycle, the rider could stop by taking support from the ground with their feet. The first bicycle has been developed by many people from the past to the present to take its current form.
In this article on the İş Bankası blog, we have compiled the advantages of using bicycles and the countries that commonly use bicycles as a means of transportation.
Advantages of Using a Bicycle
Helps You Lose Weight
Unfortunately, one of the biggest problems of our time is obesity. Irregular and unhealthy eating habits, lack of movement, and other factors trigger weight gain. At this point, cycling offers the opportunity to exercise effectively. When you ride a bike, your calorie-burning rate increases, and many of your muscles work at the same time.
Keeps You Fit
Cycling helps you achieve a fit and healthy appearance. Riding a bicycle, especially on hilly, elevated terrains, and in forests, develops your leg, arm, and back muscles and increases your lung capacity.
Reduces Stress
One of the ways to cope with stress, which negatively affects every area of life and reduces the quality of life, is to use a bicycle. While cycling, you can get rid of the disturbing thoughts in your brain, enjoy the work of your muscles, and the fresh air.
Slows Down Aging
Lack of movement directly affects the aging process. Inactivity leads to the heart, mind, and body wearing out faster. With the use of a bicycle, the oxygen level in the body increases. The heart and muscles strengthen day by day. If you want to look younger, we recommend adding cycling to your daily routines as soon as possible.
Improves Your Sleep
Cycling physically tires you out. Nowadays, many people move so little that mental fatigue and physical fatigue are not equal for most people. This can negatively affect your sleep pattern. A body that moves every day gets physically tired, and the process of falling asleep may become easier.
Benefits Your Budget
When you start using a bicycle as a means of transportation, you avoid paying for public transport and fuel costs. This provides a small but significant contribution to your budget. At this point, we recommend choosing a comfortable bicycle that offers a smooth ride in the city.
Countries Where Bicycles Are Widely Used
The First Country That Comes to Mind When Thinking of Bicycles: The Netherlands
Being both cheap and a healthy mode of transportation has led to the bicycle being highly preferred in the Netherlands. For a country where even the Prime Minister opts for cycling, the bicycle is an indispensable means of transport. The cities are designed to accommodate cycling, turning it into a cultural phenomenon, and almost the entire country rides bicycles from childhood. These are some of the factors influencing bicycle usage in the Netherlands, known as the “bicycle country,” setting an example for all nations.
Bicycles with Interesting Designs: China
China, starting to emphasize bicycle use to combat traffic problems and air pollution, even inspects new buildings for bicycle storage capabilities. Additionally, the cities have traffic lights for bicycles. On the streets of China, you can encounter millions of bicycles with modern and quite eye-catching designs.
Traffic Organized for Bicycles: Denmark
Among the countries where bicycle use is most prevalent in the world, Denmark is a place where you can see bicycles at every corner. Especially during rush hours, bicycles can be found on virtually every street in the cities. The traffic is organized to accommodate bicycles, allowing you to enter buildings or even take elevators with your bike.
Bicycling Amidst Unique Sceneries: France
Bicycle use in France continues to increase day by day. Especially in Strasbourg, known as the bicycle capital of the country, bicycles are seen on all streets. Despite the city’s size, you can reach every part of Strasbourg by bicycle. Moreover, while cycling, the city’s breathtakingly beautiful sceneries will enchant you.
The Country Rapidly Advancing Bicycle Use: Spain
Spain, especially in recent times, has increased its emphasis on bicycle use. The city of Seville was quickly equipped with a network of bicycle lanes, and thanks to efforts to promote cycling, bicycle use increased elevenfold in a short period. This situation has started to serve as an example for other cities in Spain.
