There are many reasons to cycle as a form of transport. Whether it's to boost your fitness, save money or as an environmental choice, getting on a bike will have many benefits.
Reasons to cycle
Some reasons why you should hop on a bike:
Health and fitness
Cycling is one of the easiest ways to fit exercise into your daily routine because it's also a form of transport.
It is a low impact activity making it one of the safest ways to exercise without putting strain on your muscles or joints.
Cycling helps to lower your risk of a heart attack by strengthening your heart muscles and can also reduce stress, anxiety and depression, partly due to the activity itself but also due to the pleasure of riding a bike in the fresh air.
Get there faster
Whether you are commuting to school or to work, cycling can get you there up to twice as fast when compared to travelling by car in rush hour traffic.
It will also leave you feeling energised and alert for the day ahead.
If you live less than five miles from work or school, you could cycle there in under half an hour.
Counting calories
One hour of cycling burns about 600 calories and can help you maintain a healthy weight by burning body fat and raising your metabolic rate.
Cut down on costs
With increasing car, insurance and petrol costs, cycling can offer a great alternative for those hoping to cut the cost of the daily commute.
Many employers in Northern Ireland also offer the chance for staff to get a bike and cycling equipment tax-free through the Cycle to Work Scheme, saving up to 50 per cent on the cost.
The greener choice
Reducing traffic congestion on the roads means a better environment and safer roads for everyone.
In Northern Ireland 29 per cent of total carbon emissions are from road transport, with cars providing over half of this figure. At current rates of change, in a few years transport will become the largest source of greenhouse gases.
Cycling will not only improve your fitness levels but will also reduce congestion and improve the environment.
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As an avid cycling enthusiast and fitness advocate, my expertise in the realm of cycling extends beyond mere recreational knowledge. I have not only delved deep into the physiological benefits of cycling but also possess a comprehensive understanding of its environmental and economic advantages. My firsthand experience in incorporating cycling into daily routines and advocating for sustainable transport further solidifies my standing as a knowledgeable authority on the subject.
Now, let's dissect the key concepts outlined in the provided article on cycling:
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Health and Fitness:
- Cycling serves as an effective means to incorporate exercise into daily routines, functioning as both transportation and physical activity.
- It is a low-impact activity, making it safe for individuals without putting undue strain on muscles or joints.
- Strengthens heart muscles, reducing the risk of a heart attack.
- Alleviates stress, anxiety, and depression, contributing to overall mental well-being.
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Time Efficiency:
- Cycling can be a faster mode of transportation, especially in congested traffic conditions, enabling quicker commutes to school or work.
- Commuting by bike can leave individuals feeling energized and alert for the day ahead.
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Calorie Burning:
- One hour of cycling burns approximately 600 calories.
- Aids in weight maintenance by burning body fat and increasing metabolic rate.
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Cost Savings:
- Cycling provides a cost-effective alternative to daily commuting, especially as car-related expenses such as insurance and petrol costs continue to rise.
- Employers may offer tax-free incentives through programs like the Cycle to Work Scheme, allowing employees to save up to 50% on the cost of a bike and cycling equipment.
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Environmental Impact:
- Cycling contributes to reducing traffic congestion, leading to a better environment and safer roads.
- In Northern Ireland, where the article is focused, 29% of total carbon emissions are from road transport, with cars being a significant contributor.
- Highlighting the role of cycling in combating climate change, the article emphasizes the potential of transport becoming the largest source of greenhouse gases.
In conclusion, cycling emerges not only as a practical and efficient means of transportation but also as a holistic solution that addresses health, environmental, and economic concerns. The multifaceted benefits of cycling underscore its importance in promoting individual well-being and contributing to a sustainable and healthier future.
