May 25, 2024, 09:57 AM IST

Swimming vs cycling: Which is better for weight loss?

Sonali Sharma

Swimming is a sport that requires learning before one can pursue it and is a full body workout

Swimming works the entire body's muscles, including the back, legs, shoulders, arms, and core. As a result, it encourages general endurance and strength.

Swimming equipment is less expensive than riding equipment. From the standpoint of health advantages, low-impact cardiovascular exercise is excellent. People of all ages can therefore perform it.

The core muscles, including the abdominals, obliques, are engaged to stabilise the body and maintain proper body alignment in the water.

Cycling is a sport which almost everyone knows and has practiced in their childhood. Cycling doesn't require much training. However, the equipment for cycling are expensive than that of swimming.

Cycling majorly focuses on lower body such as quadriceps, hamstrings, and glutes, with less emphasis on upper body engagement.

Cycling and swimming are two effective ways to burn calories. However, studies have shown that swimming uses more muscle groups than cycling does in an hour, burning more calories.

Maintaining correct pedal position and producing power requires the active involvement of the calf muscles, particularly the gastrocnemius and soleus, in pointing and flexing the foot.

Swimming and cycling are great ways to stay in shape, but if you have any health condition, consult with a healthcare professional before starting your exercise regimen