In thinking about mental health, the word “motorcycles” might not be the first thing that comes to mind – but there are some emotional and psychological benefits to riding a motorcycle. Many people are drawn to motorbiking for the thrill of the ride and the sense of freedom they feel on the road (which can be therapeutic in itself), but did you know that there’s even a scientific basis for these emotions? Let’s dive into some of the reasons why motorcycles can be beneficial when it comes to mental health.
Presence and Mindfulness
The state of focus and alertness required to ride safely is like a form of motorcycle mindfulness. Riding calls for constant and quick decision-making (“Should I slow down? Get ready to stop? What’s around the corner? Are there any bumps or dips in the road?”) and awareness of your surroundings, which forces you to be present and stay in the moment. As British motorcycle road racer Leon Haslam put it, “The focus required from motorcycling is such that all other issues are forgotten and even if that is for a short period of time it could be invaluable.”
Digital Detox
Riding is a great way to get outside, enjoy some fresh air, and appreciate your surroundings. As screen time isn’t the best for our mental health, any chance to consciously take a break and unplug can make a big difference in our day and beyond. While motorcycling isn’t exactly the same as forest bathing, the mental health benefits of being out in nature – even if it’s on a bike! – are well-established.
Stress Reduction
Many of the exhilarating emotions associated with riding have scientific explanations: adrenaline rushes, and the release of dopamine and endorphins. But even beyond improving your mood, a recent study showed that riding produced similar results as doing light exercise, as well as decreasing markers of stress by 25%. The lead scientist on the research team commented, “The differences in participants’ neurological and physiological responses between riding and other measured activities were quite pronounced. This could be significant for mitigating everyday stresses.”
A Sense of Connection
There’s a strong sense of community around motorbiking. Whether it’s sharing maintenance tips and routes, meeting fellow riders at a club or rally, or swapping stories, riding brings people together. Even if it’s just a mutual nod as you pass each other on the road, being on a motorbike means being a part of something bigger, which can create a sense of connection and a feeling of belonging.
Physical Activity
Mental health and physical exercise are closely linked, and as any biker can attest, riding a motorcycle is anything but a passive activity. Even if you don’t necessarily break a sweat while out for a ride, controlling your bike is a good strengthening exercise for areas like your legs, core, arms, and neck, and riding can provide some light cardio by elevating your heart rate. (Not to mention the benefits of training your hand-eye coordination and balance!)
Building Confidence
When you’re riding a motorcycle, you’re in control: you get to decide where to go and how you’re going to get there. But this doesn’t mean it’s easy. Learning to ride is a challenge in itself, and there is no shortage of things to learn from there, whether it’s improving your skills on certain terrains or understanding how to take care of your bike. Getting comfortable with doing something new, conquering any fears you might have, and the acts of planning and deciding for yourself are all things that can build confidence and self-esteem and diminish anxiety.
New Places, New Perspectives
Even if you’re not planning a grand road trip itinerary, taking in a place by motorcycle can open up a different perspective. Motorcycle riding also provides different possibilities for travel than planes, trains, or even cars, whether in terms of the route, the end goal, or even the way you experience the trip. No matter the destination, travel can provide a fresh outlook. This can help lift you out of a rut, dare you to get you out of your comfort zone and experience something new, or challenge you to change your mind about something.
As if you didn’t have enough reason to want to get on your bike, the mental health benefits of motorcycling are many and various. Whether it’s an immediate mood boost or a long-term mindfulness practice you’re looking for, we officially give you permission to consider riding as part of your self-care repertoire!
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