Bike to work day is approaching on May 20th and what better way to gear up for warmer weather than by switching up your daily commute? Whether you’re a professional or you’re still a beginner, cycling to work has many benefits no matter your experience level. From increasing your endurance to being environmentally friendly, here are a few ways biking to work can benefit you.
Increases Your Endurance
Biking for just 30 minutes a day helps strengthen your cardiovascular and muscular endurance, which boosts your overall stamina on the bike and off. Building up your endurance improves your overall health and energy levels, so you’re better able to perform work-related tasks.
Decreases Stress Levels
Studies have shown that cycling is linked to improved mental health and can help reduce feelings of anxiety and depression. Starting your day by riding to work can be just what you need to start the day feeling refreshed, energized and react to tackle the day ahead. If you’ve had a long or stressful day at work, biking home at the end of the day can help release those stressful feelings and thoughts so you don’t take them home with you.
Is Environmentally Friendly
Aside from the exercise and being a mood-booster, cycling can be a sustainable way to get around. According to the Department of General Services, biking to work can cut down on your household emissions by at least six percent. If you’re looking for a way to decrease your carbon footprint, biking to work is a great place to start.
3 Tips for Biking to Work
- Follow the rules of the road. Make sure to obey all road signs, always ride with traffic and pay attention to moving vehicles and parked cars.
- Prioritize your safety. Safety comes first when it comes to cycling. Always wear a helmet to protect your head, wear comfortable workout clothes and get a reliable lock for your bike to keep it safe once you head into the office.
- Use hand signals. Before you start your bike commute, learn cycling hand signals so you’re able to alert other cyclists and drivers when you’re turning or slowing down.
For more benefits and tips for biking safely to work, check out the infographic below.
