The benefits of cycling to work

Cycling to work has always been a popular form of transport in cities. After all, what’s not to love about avoiding the rush-hour tubes and crowded buses whilst keeping fit at the same time? Whether you work in an office skyscraper or you’re hot desking in camden, anyone and everyone can enjoy the many advantages of travelling on two wheels. So if you’re new to cycling, keen to get back into fitness, or just want to try a new transport method, read on for the main benefits of cycling to work…

Health, fitness and wellbeing

A major benefit to cycling to and from work is your health and fitness. Depending on the length of your commute, your height and weight, and how hard you push yourself, you can usually expect to burn several hundred calories per hour of cycling. This is great for people who want to lose weight, or get back in shape. Plus, using your commute as your daily form of exercise means that you won’t have to spend your mornings or evenings in the gym.

The positive health benefits from cycling are numerous and cycling to work has been proven to improve longevity, heart health, the immune system, quality of sleep and even cognitive health, as well as naturally lifting the mood. Cycling also has mental health benefits, helping you to de-stress, clear the mind and boost your mental well-being.

For these reasons, many companies have started to offer cycle schemes to employees, recognising the benefits of a happier, healthier workforce that is less likely to get sick.

Save time and money

Although you may have to make some initial payments, like the bike itself and other necessary equipment such as helmet, lights, pump and reflective gear, in the long run you’ll likely save money on transport costs. Lots of companies offer Cycle to Work schemes, which will help you on your cycling journey. Cycling can also save you time, as cyclists are able to bypass areas of congestion and are less likely to be impacted by traffic.

Although some bikes can be expensive, you can usually pick up a bargain on eBay or Gumtree – just make sure you view the bike in person and test it out before you buy. You will also need to get your bike serviced, or pay for potential issues such as punctures – but again, these are less expensive than car services or repairs.

Protecting the environment

By cycling instead of taking public transport or driving, you’ll be reducing your carbon footprint – the CO2 emissions per kilometre of cycling is more than ten times less than that of a car. You’ll also be helping to reduce harmful emissions and outdoor pollution in the air, creating a more enjoyable and safe environment for everyone.

The daily commute often feels rushed, but cycling gives you a chance to step back from the crowds and take life at your own pace, making time to explore, stop for rests, breathe, and soak in your surroundings.

Explore your city

Taking the tube or bus every day can quickly become monotonous, but travelling to work by bike can give you fantastic views of the city. Enjoy the freedom of cycling over bridges, along rivers and through public parks, which are all things you tend to miss when you travel by tube. You can also vary your cycle route daily to keep things interesting. You never know, you may discover a hidden gem!

Cycling to work really does have many benefits to offer – just remember to be safe while on the roads and always wear the necessary protective equipment.