Originally Posted by
Heathenix
I don't know too much about the validity of the bone density concern, but the first time this story did the rounds of the mainstream newspapers it was amazing how little time it took a car-driving colleague who is "greener-than-thou" in every other area of her life to let me know that my commuting was liable to make my bones crumble to dust. Um yeah. Thanks. Riding a bike has also lowered my blood pressure and my weight, increased my fitness level and improved my quality of life, saved me a ton of gas money and lowered my environmental impact. And it has helped me to set a good example for my kids. No way this study is getting me off my bike.
I didn't post it with the intent of scaring anyone off their bike. Just like the cycling and impotence link, -it's good to know about possible risks so that you can take steps to minimize or eliminate them (or decide that you're not at risk).
My mother had osteoporosis. Incredibly she was undiagnosed until one of her vertebrae disintegrated while lifting a 15 lb. object. She had 70 years of nearly perfect health and spent the last 10 years of her life practically disabled in spite of several surgeries and various treatments. I don't imagine the outcome of a cyclist's injury due to low bone density would be quite as dire but I also don't think it's something you want to fool with if you can avoid.