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Cycling club — the way to ride faster, longer, happier (on social connections)

30 January 2024
In the first part, I mentioned how a strong grip strength is linked to increased longevity—and also noted the impact of being part of a cycling club.

In the second part, I explained that VO2 max is even more critical than grip strength and highlighted how training it within a club can make the process less painful.

But that wasn’t the main takeaway about cycling clubs. Today, we’ll delve into how social connections influence overall health.
Several biomarkers help assess physical health. In addition to grip strength and VO2 max, here are a few worth knowing about:

  • Waist circumference: Greater than 94 cm for men and 80 cm for women indicates a need to reduce visceral fat. (Measure with a simple tailor’s tape.)

  • Blood pressure: Readings above 120/80 warrant consulting a cardiologist about medications ending with -pril or -sartan. (Use an affordable blood pressure monitor.)

  • Blood glucose levels: Fasting levels above 100 mg/dL or post-meal levels over 180 mg/dL require immediate medical attention. (Measure using an inexpensive glucometer.)
In addition to physical health, mental well-being is essential for a happy and healthy life. Chronic stress and anxiety not only diminish quality of life but are also linked to various conditions [Cohen S et al. 2007], such as:
Unfortunately, mental health lacks definitive biomarkers for either clinical- or self-assessment. Though mental challenges seemingly influence physical health indicators, isolating their specific effects from the general lifestyle factors is challenging. That said, there is something interesting here.
Numerous studies explore the correlation between social connections (friends, family, club members) and health biomarkers. These include metrics already mentioned [Martino J et al. 2017] and more complex ones like C-reactive protein levels [Yang YC et al. 2016], which reflect systemic inflammation.

Research, including meta-analyses [Holt-Lunstad J et al. 2010], confirms that the quality and quantity of social ties significantly affect mortality risk—comparable to traditional health factors.

Social bonds also influence chronic disease risk, infection susceptibility [Cohen S et al. 1997], and even pain tolerance [Johnson K & Dunbar R 2016].

Some of the reasons behind these correlations are well understood, while others remain the subject of active scientific discussion. In any case — higher pain tolerance means longer, faster group rides!
07.01.2024
Why mechanical brakes are HEALTHIER than hydraulic ones (on grip strength)
11.01.2024
If you can live without a bike for a couple of weeks, you might not live long at all (on VO2 max)