Do Professional Cyclists Live Longer Than You?

Do professional cyclists live longer than you? Professional cyclists seem to have built a reputation surrounding premature death.

While it may seem morbid, professional cyclists are often linked to taking questionable performance-enhancing drugs or being involved in catastrophic bicycle crashes, both of which may lead to tragic death.

So, when a new study was released claiming the exact opposite, cyclists around the globe raised their helmets in question. Do professional cyclists really live longer than the average person? Quite simply, they live a lot longer.

Using French participants from the Tour de France, the study serves to compare the lifespan of a professional cyclist against the lifespan of an average person. In this study, the average lifespan of 786 French cyclists, who had participated in at least one Tour de France since 1947, were pinned against the lifespan of average Frenchmen.

The results were rather astonishing: male professional cyclists are likely to live a massive 6.3 years longer than their counterparts in the general public.

These findings were recently presented at the Congress of the European Society of Cardiology in Amsterdam. As of September 1st, 2012, 208 deaths had been recorded of the 786 French cyclists in the study.

These metrics marked a mortality rate that is 42 percent lower than that of the general population used as the study’s comparison. Many explanations for the difference in lifespan for professional cyclists lie in the healthy lifestyle that comes naturally to the cycling community.

In addition, the propensity to ride after their professional careers end as well as the limited about of smoking associated with professional cyclists lends more credibility to the study’s claims.

What is particularly interesting about this study is that the professional cyclists lived longer despite the massive doping trends taking place throughout the years. Using performance-enhancing drugs in professional cycling is no stranger to the sport.

The 1950s and 1960s marked an era of amphetamines, the 1970s and 1980s marked an era of anabolic steroids, and since the 1990s, EPO and growth hormones have continued to haunt the cycling community.

However, the study did make mention that more time was necessary to confirm the trends regarding the post-1990 doping period.

High Intensity Exercise and Heart Health

One of the key contributors to the longer life spans of pro cyclists is their heart health. High-intensity exercise, such as interval sprints, long endurance rides, and hill climbs, improves the efficiency of the cardiovascular system.

Exercise of this nature lowers blood pressure, reduces resting heart rate, and strengthens the heart muscle. It improves your overall cardiovascular health.

However, some have raised concerns that too much intense cycling might actually be detrimental. Could pushing the human body to its limit day after day, year after year, lead to burnout or cardiovascular problems later in life?

Interestingly, while overtraining can have short-term negative impacts, long-term research has not supported the idea that elite cycling causes premature aging or higher rates of heart attack.

Quite the opposite: studies have shown that even the most grueling races, such as the Tour de France, do not shorten life expectancy.

The Psychological Edge

Longevity isn’t just about physical health—it also involves mental well-being. Professional cyclists benefit from the regular exercise’s effect on stress reduction, improved sleep, and stronger cognitive function.

Over time, this mental clarity and reduced stress play a role in preventing age-related mental decline and emotional burnout.

Moreover, being engaged in a purposeful, goal-driven lifestyle—typical of a professional athlete—can encourage better habits outside of training. Minimal alcohol use, strict sleep schedules, and strong social support systems all contribute to a longer life.

Are There Risks to Intense Cycling?

Of course, no form of exercise is without its risks. Injuries, overtraining, and crashes are common in professional cycling. Long races and training blocks can also suppress the immune system temporarily, making riders more susceptible to illness.

However, in terms of long-term effects, research does not suggest that these risks have a significant impact on overall longevity. Riders showed

What This Means for You

So, do professional cyclists live longer than you? Statistically speaking—probably. But this isn’t meant to discourage you; rather, it should inspire. While you may not train 30 hours a week or compete in Grand Tours, incorporating regular cycling into your routine can significantly boost your heart health and overall wellness.

Just 30–60 minutes of moderate to high intensity exercise several times a week can reduce your risk of heart attack, stroke, diabetes, and certain cancers.

The health benefits of cycling extend beyond the physical, improving mood, mental sharpness, and even social connections through group rides and community events.

Additionally, building habits similar to those of elite riders—consistent training, balanced nutrition, adequate sleep, and regular medical checkups—can help you achieve a healthy life that may rival that of a seasoned pro.

Final Thoughts

Riding your bike regularly is one of the best things you can do to live a longer, healthier life.

You don’t need to race the Tour de France. Just getting on your bike often, even for moderate rides, gives you huge health benefits – especially for your heart health – and boosts your chances of a longer life.

While you may not ride in the peloton or wear a yellow jersey, adopting some of the same habits can dramatically increase your chances of living a longer life.

What is your opinion regarding professional cyclists having a longer lifespan than the general population? Does this study encourage you to get on your bike more often?

Whether you’re riding a few miles to work or training for your next gran fondo, every pedal stroke contributes to a better, healthier you. What do you think, do professional cyclists live longer than you?

Share your feedback and opinion below to join in on Florida’s cycling community chatter!