Considerations for Bone Health

Bone is a dynamic tissue that is continually in a state of modelling/remodelling, allowing for adequate adaptations of its mass and structure in response to intrinsic and environmental stimuli. Consequently, bone is influenced by numerous factors, including nutritional intake and physical activity/exercise. Cycling may lead to impaired bone health in some individuals, which can increase their risk for osteoporosis and associated fractures later in life. This is largely because of the non-weight-bearing nature of cycling (exerting no significant mechanical loading on bones) and the involvement of cyclists in prolonged training volumes with or without adequate nutrition. This chapter outlines the risk factors for impaired bone health and discusses relevant exercise and nutritional strategies that could support cyclists and practitioners in optimising their bone health in conjunction with their training practices.