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Effects of Commuter Cycling on Physical Activity, Cardiometabolic Health and Body Composition

Year: 2025

Type: article

Study designs: Randomized Controlled Trial, Clinical Trial

Abstract: ABSTRACT The aim of this study was to evaluate effects of a 10‐week commuter cycling intervention on physical activity (PA), cardiometabolic health and body composition. A randomised controlled trial was conducted in healthy males and females (n = 26, BMI ≤ 30, ≥ 20 years ≤ 55 years). The intervention group (CYC) cycle commuted (148 ± 38 min.wk−1). The control group (CON) received public transport or petrol vouchers. O2max increased in CYC (10.5 ± 16.2%), decreased in CON (−2.8 ± 12.3%) (p = 0.03). HRrest decreased in CYC (−5.4 ± 6.8%), increased in CON (1.7 ± 9.5%) (p = 0.02) as did diastolic blood pressure (−1.2 ± 7.5%, 11.9 ± 16.5%, respectively, p = 0.02). Weekly logbooks indicated no group difference in total PA (Group p = 0.15) or change over time (p = 0.18). CYC conducted more moderate and vigorous PA combined (p = 0.008). No changes in body mass were observed (CYC: wk0 78.5 ± 9.0, wk10 78.7 ± 9.0, CON: wk0 69.8 ± 6.7, wk10 70.3 ± 6.7 (p = 0.17), or difference between groups (p = 0.61). Body fat (sum of 4 skinfolds) was maintained similarly in both groups (p = 0.95). Body fat (DXA) was 29.4 ± 9. 7% before and 29.5 ± 9.8% after in CYC (p = 0.97). The intervention did not alter C‐reactive protein, HDL, LDL, or total cholesterol, fasting glucose, insulin or HOMA‐IR (p > 0.05). In conclusion, some cardiovascular benefits can occur with commuter cycling even if total PA and body composition are not altered. The increase in more intensive PA is likely responsible for the enhanced cardiovascular fitness. Trial Registration The study was registered with the Australian New Zealand Clinical Trials Registry (ANZTCR:12617000123347)

Source: European Journal of Sport Science

DOI: 10.1002/ejsc.12289

Authors: B. James Novis, Elaine A. Hargreaves, Tim Jowett, Nancy J. Rehrer

Institution: University of Otago

Language: English

Topic: Physical Activity and Health

Subfield: Physiology

Field: Medicine

Domain: Health Sciences

SDGs: Good health and well-being, Sustainable cities and communities

Open Access status: gold

Estimated APC paid: $2,680