What better way to get fit and reduce fuel costs than cycling to work!

26th November 2008

Cycling is one of the best ways to create a healthier lifestyle. Regular cyclists suffer far less from obesity, heart disease, diabetes and cancer than those who live a car bound lifestyle. They are also less prone to psychological disorders such as depression. The health benefits of cycling far outweigh the risk from accidents by a factor of 20 to 1.

Cycling to work means you start the day invigorated and refreshed with no need to have two cups of coffee to “jump start” you once you arrive. 

Cycling is good for everyone else too. It cuts pollution and helps create a more human environment. It’s even good for the economy. There are many costs to society associated with car use that are often overlooked, for example, the cost of road deaths and injuries, pollution and congestion.

Even small changes in travel behaviour can make a big difference. If everyone were to cycle to work only twice a month, average traffic levels would drop by 10%. 

Here are our top tips to get you started:

Choose the right tool for the job – Any cycle can be used for cycling to work but a machine adapted or purposely designed for the job will make cycling easier and more enjoyable especially if you adjust it to fit correctly.

Plan your route – You might be able to avoid a busy section of road or junction or even include a quiet traffic free path that will make your trip to work a pleasure.

Develop some basic mechanical skills – a purpose designed, quality utility cycle requires minimal maintenance and it is unlikely to let you down.

Ride both assertively and defensively – claim your road space, ensure that you clearly indicate your intentions to other road users and avoid putting yourself in a position where a mistake by others may put you at risk.

Buy a good lock – You may also like to add your bike cycle to your household insurance or take out a dedicated cycle insurance policy.

Build up slowly – If you have a low level of fitness try a few weeks of leisure cycling before riding to work. Naturally, cycling to work will make you fitter to enjoy your leisure time and in turn your leisure cycling will make your journey to work easier and quicker.