PRCC Public and Community Health Practice Exam 2026 – Complete Prep Guide

Cycling is primarily a non-weight-bearing activity, meaning that the body is supported by the bicycle rather than having to support itself against gravity as in weight-bearing activities like running. This lack of gravitational load can affect the heart's response to exercise.

In non-weight-bearing activities, individuals may find it more difficult to elevate their heart rate to the desired training intensity without appropriate resistance settings or an incline. In contrast, weight-bearing exercises tend to stimulate the cardiovascular system more effectively due to the increased load on the muscles and bones, prompting a stronger heart rate response.

This characteristic of cycling means that for individuals to reach and maintain the proper training intensity, they may need to alter the effort, such as by adjusting the resistance on their bike, increasing their cadence, or incorporating intervals to raise heart rate effectively. Understanding this aspect of cycling is crucial for designing effective aerobic training programs, ensuring that intensity levels can be adequately met and sustained throughout the workout.