Originally Posted by MichaelW
Maybe cyclist are self-selecting for low bone-density. Many cyclists have a light build, they can't hack contact sports, where heavy bones can protect you against injury. A light build is advantageous in cycling, about the only place where it it.
Does cycling reduce your bone density, or do light-boned people prefer cycling.
None of the above. The reason that bikes go fast is that you are able to channel the strength/energy normally used to support the body into forward locomotion. In other words, you spend your cycling time sitting. The only thing that'll cause bone density loss faster is bed rest (space flight?). The issue though is not cycling, but not having a ballanced fitness program.
Overweight folks have higher bone density because they have to support more weight.
Best way to maintain bone density is weight training, but not to failure as stated earlier. Walking helps too. I bike 2 to 4 times per week, but I weight train and walk too. My wife (62) has excellent bone density and follows the same regime. I get my first density scan this spring.
Al