Cyclists at Risk for Osteoporosis

by Ryan Halvorson

Making News:

Although many people look to cycling as a no-impact means of improving health and fitness, a recent study implies that this very element may negatively affect long-term riders, placing them at greater risk for developing osteoporosis. The study, published in the February issue of Medicine & Science in Sports & Exercise (2009; 41[2], 290–96), compared bone tissue of competitive male road cyclists with that of other men who were moderately physically active. The authors analyzed total-body, lumbar-spine and dual proximal femur-bone mineral density (BMD). The 32 cyclists had a mean 9.4 years of racing experience and matched the control group in age, height, body mass and testosterone levels. No information was provided on the types of physical activity in the control group. The scientists discovered that the cyclists had significantly lower lumbar-spine BMD than the controls, despite the fact that the cyclists had a higher calcium intake. “Our findings indicate that male cyclists had lower spine BMD than controls, which was not associated with group differences in testosterone,” stated the study authors. “Future studies are needed to elucidate the underlying mechanisms for low bone mass in cyclists.”

Founder of Ovarian Cycle Inc. and IDEA author and presenter Bethany Diamond suggests that cyclists step up cross-training efforts to minimize decreases in BMD. “If the concern is bone density for cyclists and swimmers, the answer is strength training and cross-training,” says Diamond. “Weight-bearing exercise loading the trunk will create the impact forces needed for greater bone density in the spine.” She suggests activities such as walking, jogging or using the stair climber as possible training alternatives. For trainers, “it is key to determine your clients’ activities and assist them in reaching their goals with an overall approach that maintains their health for life,” adds Diamond.