Why Cycling May Be the Most Efficient Cardio Workout
For many people trying to stay active in a busy world, walking and running remain the most familiar forms of exercise. They require little equipment and can be done almost anywhere—from neighborhood streets to city parks. But when it comes to energy efficiency, experts say another workout may quietly outperform them: cycling.
While running is often praised for its calorie-burning power and cardiovascular benefits, sports scientists note that it requires significantly more energy than cycling to achieve similar results. The reason lies in the mechanics of how the body moves.
Running involves repeated impact with the ground. Each step creates a cycle of braking and acceleration as the foot strikes the surface and the body propels forward again. The arms swing to maintain balance and mo...