With the terms ‘carbon footprint’ and ‘global warming’ now a firm part of modern day vocabulary, finding ways to save energy and help the environment are more important than ever.

Cycling to work is a great way for people to make themselves more ecologically conscientious, but why should they bother?

Environmental Reasons

The obvious environmental reasons are perhaps one of the biggest attractions for cycling to work. We are all aware of the damage which exhaust fumes cause to the environment, meaning that cycling is the perfect solution. Quicker than walking, but more ecologically sound than motorised vehicles, bicycles are an efficient way to get to work without damaging the environment.

Getting fit cycling to work is the way to GO!

Getting fit cycling to work

More Convenient

Not only are there environmental advantages to cycling to work, but the process is also more convenient and therefore less stressful to individuals. This is because bicycles can filter through traffic jams, helping them to avoid stressful delays. When it comes to arriving at your place of work, parking and securing a bicycle is also much easier. Most places of employment will offer secured areas to lock or store your bicycle. This means that you don’t have to waste fifteen minutes searching for a parking space large enough to accommodate your fuel-guzzling vehicle.

Health Benefits

Cycling to work also has a number of health benefits for those involved. Health and fitness has become another prime concern for the British public recently, with an increased awareness of obesity prompting people to address their lifestyles.

Cycling is a great way to improve overall health and fitness levels because it provides a fast and energetic workout which is not stressful on joints or limbs. This means that you will reap the benefits without a strenuous workout, helping to keep people relaxed.

The commute to work is the perfect opportunity for cycling because it turns working out into a necessary activity. Cycling to work is a form of ‘active travel’ – a way of reaching a destination whilst expending energy and improving your fitness. Cycling to work also ensures that you are in the right frame of mind to begin your day, having been invigorated by the journey to work.

Economical Improvements

You may not think so, but cycling can also have great benefits for your wallet. As most commutes to work are over relatively short distances, driving can cost a fortune in fuel – especially if you are stuck in congestion along the way. Cycling does not entail any of these costs, meaning that it is more economically friendly to your finances.

Alongside this, a number of businesses promote and encourage various schemes – such as the Cycle to Work scheme. With so many businesses joining the cause, and business campuses such as Harwell Oxford Science Park running events to encourage employees to cycle to work, cycling can be a great and cost effective way to travel. The government’s Cycle to Work scheme enables employers to offer bicycles and even safety equipment to employees as a tax-free benefit. This means that individuals can get a bike without spending a fortune, allowing them to save money, improve their fitness and help the environment all at the same time.

Robert is a freelance blogger and keen cyclist.
Image: Chaiwat / FreeDigitalPhotos.net

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