Take the bike to work - for better well-being

In recent years, bicycle transport has become increasingly popular. Favouring a bicycle instead of a car is not only good for the environment, but also an excellent way to improve your health. But just how good are the benefits, and as an employer, how can one make cycling to work a realistic prospect?

The World Health Organization (WHO) recommends that we should be active for at least 30 minutes every day. As many people find it difficult to squeeze this into their busy lives, a bike ride to and from work could be the ideal solution! Cycling to work can improve our fitness by up to 7%, depending on the distance travelled. When cycling at a steady pace we burn around 400 calories per hour. In addition to this, respiration and metabolism increase and the risk of heart disease decreases.

Better for you - kinder to the environment

By opting for the bike instead of the car, we are not only improving our own health, but also reducing our carbon footprint. Driving short distances can have a big effect on the environment. Studies show that starting car engines and the first few miles that we drive are the most environmentally damaging. So cycling those shorter journeys can make more of a difference than you might think. Of course, cycling all the way to work may not be a practical solution. Instead, why not cycle to the bus or train station and break your journey up this way?

Create opportunities for employees to use their bikes

How can the employer make it easier for those who cycle to work? A first step is to provide safe bicycle parking next to the workplace. Bike racks or shelters are ideal for this! A changing room with washing facilities, lockers and benches will allow employees to get clean and put on a fresh set of clothes. Some companies even offer rental bicycles or electric bicycles to employees – which is a great way to promote well-being for workers and the environment.