Ask a coach: ‘Why is cycling bad for bone density?’

We delve into the health downsides of picking a ‘non-weight bearing’ sport

Male cyclist riding out the saddle
(Image credit: Future)

Whilst cycling may have a mountain of positive health benefits, there has been growing attention to the areas and aspects of our health which the sport neglects. One of the major ones is ‘bone density’, since cycling is considered a non-weight-bearing activity. Cycling coach Alex Welburn explains what problems low bone density can cause - and what cyclists can do to combat it.

Alex Welburn
Alex Welburn

Performance cycling coach Alex Welburn is one of the experts who will be answering your questions in Cycling Weekly's Ask a Cycling Coach series, online every Wednesday. He's currently completing a PhD on Critical power and W' at Loughborough University whilst also managing the Performance Project, in which he coaches athletes and provides consultation.

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