Cycling to work is a great way to keep fit. It is by far one of the more easier ways to keep fit and can be incorporated into your daily routine. It helps people meet recommended physical activity guidelines, improves mental health and well-being, and reduces the risk of ill-health. Some of the main benefits for cycling to work can include:

• saving money over commuting by car and car parking/petrol expenses
• helping the environment by keeping the number of cars off the road thus reducing carbon emissions
• getting yourself in shape by building your cardiovascular fitness

People who cycle regularly in mid-adulthood typically enjoy a level of fitness equivalent to someone 10 years younger than themselves; and how many calories you use up whilst cycling depends on your weight, height, age and how fast you ride but generally speaking, cycling burns around 5 calories a minute.

The more alarming news is that a lack of exercise can make you ill, and obesity is a serious and constant public health concern. In 2013, almost a third of children aged 2 – 15 were classed as either overweight or obese and without action, 60% of men, 50% of women and 25% of children will be obese by 2050 in the UK – and cost the NHS £10 billion p.a.

According to the Road Use Statistics 2016 Report relased by the Department for Transport, the most common means of transport is by car for all age, gender, and income groups. Worryingly, the National Travel Survey 2014 suggests that about 8% of the population aged five+ cycles three or more times a week (equating to around 5.1 million people in Great Britain) and that 65% cycle less than once a year, or never (equating to about 41.4 million people in Great Britain).

If your employer has participated in the Government-lead ‘Cycle to Work Scheme’, then you can partake in this tax-efficient scheme that allows employers to buy and hire out bikes to their staff for a regular payment – the employee can then buy the bike at market value at the end of the loan period. It is a fantastic incentive for those who regularly travel to work via car and are looking for an alternative method to getting stuck in traffic during your morning commute.

Next time you are in Halfords, Evans Cycles or any other participating retailer, why not get yourself a bike, set some goals and enjoy a healthier commute to work!