The big bike commute

Next month is World Cycling Day and we want to encourage you to hop on a bike and cycle your way into work.

Whether it’s the rising cost of fuel prices meaning you need to find a more cost-effective method to get around – or you’re looking to get more exercise into your day and can’t find the time to fit it in, there’s always a case for leaving the car at home.

Whatever your rationale is, there are a multitude of reasons why cycling into work is a better option than driving. Here’s why:

• Improves your physical and mental wellbeing: cycling is fantastic for your overall wellbeing. It helps improve cardiovascular fitness and reduces blood pressure, but it also helps to combat stress and reduce levels of depression and anxiety. Riding a bike over driving a car will inevitable mean you’re recruiting your muscles and you’ll burning a lot more calories!
• Saves money: there’s no denying it – the price of fuel is on the rise, and by switching to cycling you can save a fortune each year – especially when you factor in car insurance, fuel, parking fees, maintenance and other car expenses. On top of this, you can also avoid sitting in standstill traffic and always be on the move.
• Protects the environment: traditional car emissions pollute the air with carbon monoxide and other harmful gases which are a danger to the environment. On top of this, noise and traffic pollution are also an issue. Cycling is totally environmentally-friendly!
• Improves focus: cycling will mean that your brain is more engaged and you’re less likely to switch off, which will have a knock-on effect for the rest of the day. Driving a car for an extended period of time can be boring, monotonous and even aggravating, which may make us feel lethargic or irritable.

Before embarking on a cycle commute, it’s important to make sure you’re optimising your safety:

• Check with your doctor of any medical concerns or conditions regarding your fitness and health
• Wear a helmet
• Wear cycling clothes, which may be bright or reflective to ensure you’re visible to drivers and pedestrians
• Choose a suitable bike to put less stress on your body
• Use a padded saddle to ensure comfort, particularly during longer rides
• Use quieter roads or bike lanes where possible

So, next month, why not start earning a few extra points and try logging your cycle commute on the Virtual Club app?

Additionally, you can get a kick start into your cycling journey by joining our World Cycling Challenge from the 3rd of June 2022!

Not only will it give you a greater sense of achievement, but it’ll give you a host of physical and mental benefits that’ll help with your overall wellbeing (and extra points, of course!).