are electric bikes good exercise?
A common criticism of electric bikes is that they remove effort from cycling. In reality, electric bikes often increase overall physical activity, particularly for people who might otherwise ride less—or not at all.
How Electric Bikes Change Exercise Behaviour
Electric assistance lowers barriers such as hills, wind, joint pain, and fatigue. As a result, riders tend to:
- Cycle more frequently
- Ride longer distances
- Maintain consistency over time
Calories Burned on an E-Bike
While calorie burn per mile may be slightly lower than on a traditional bike, total calories burned over a week are often higher because riders spend more time cycling.
Cardiovascular Benefits
Heart rate studies show that e-bike riders typically operate in a moderate aerobic zone, which is ideal for long-term cardiovascular health.
Strength and Mobility
Pedalling with assistance still engages:
- Quadriceps and hamstrings
- Glute muscles
- Core stabilisers
The Bottom Line
Electric bikes support sustainable exercise habits, particularly for people returning to activity or managing physical limitations.
Recommended reading:
- Electric Bikes for Riders Over 50
- Cycling with Knee Pain
Recommended options:
Comfort-focused UK-legal electric bicycle models can be viewed here.