Good news! The “first comprehensive test of the health and fitness benefits of recreational riding on all-terrain vehicles (ATVs) and off-road motorcycles (ORMs)” proves that riding is only as good as it feels.
The study
Conducted over several years by the York University School of Health, co-funded by the Nova Scotia Government and 3 riding associations, the study began with a meticulous survey across the country to determine the ‘typical’ rider.
That was the entire first phase of this great experiment.
The researchers then looked at 128 cyclists, divided into 6 groups: 3 age classifications, men and women. After modifying the equipment of these cyclists, they were able to measure physical effects: heart rate; oxygen consumption; fatigue and muscular effort, etc.
The results
Driving an ATV requires genuine and serious physical exertion. According to Canadian government fitness standards, it should positively affect your health.
While riding, the cyclists’ oxygen use increased between 3.5 and 6 times its resting level. That’s 600% more! And according to the standards set by the American College of Sports Medicine, that constitutes moderately intense physical activity.
That same moderate intensity tests the heart and tires the muscles. How much? Almost the same amount as other individual sports that you practice at your own pace, such as skiing, golf or rock climbing.
A typical ATV ride was 2-3 hours; ORM was 1-2 hours. The amount of work required on the upper body and arms, if practiced regularly, was sufficient to increase muscular and skeletal fitness. And how regularly did they need to ride to start noticing that increase? Just once or twice a week!
the big one
The researchers also noted the emotional high that fit people are always talking about: “improved quality of life and reduced stress.” This surprised our riders.
