[ROAD CYCLING, DECREASED BONE DENSITY AND PROXIMAL FEMORAL FRACTURES].

Introduction: Cycling in Israel: Cycling in Israel is a common sport which is considered to be beneficial to health. However, questions arise about its impact on bone health, due to publications reporting a decrease in bone density in cyclists and the presence of fractures that characterize a relatively older population in relatively young cyclists. Exercise and bone health: It has been proven that a sporty lifestyle, exercise in general and cycling in particular, lowers the chance of fractures of the proximal femur. Cycling and bone density: Several studies have shown that cycling regularly, particularly road cycling, without a combination of off-road cycling/ running/ impact exercise, leads to a decrease in bone density especially in the hip area. The phenomenon is seen at all ages (adolescents and adults), in women and men. Improving bone density values: The only options that have been shown to increase bone density are the combination of impact exercise such as running, off-road cycling, etc. or adding whole-body vibration training to the training routine.

Discussion: Despite the common assumption that sports activities contribute to bone health, and therefore to a reduced risk of fractures, a review of the medical literature shows that paradoxically, road cycling has a negative effect on bone strength, and therefore is a risk factor for proximal femoral fractures. To avoid this, we recommend incorporating in the training routine: running/ off-road cycling/ impact exercise/ whole body vibration. It is also important to maintain a balanced diet, while sustaining adequate calcium intake.