If there was a simple way to be happier, more active and save money all
at once, would you do it? These days you can’t surf your favorite news site
without encountering a study showing that those who have chosen bikes over cars
are happier and healthier.
The New Economics Foundation, a British-based think tank, has reported
that “studies comparing the experiences of commuting by bicycle and car report
that cyclists find their mode of transport at least as flexible and convenient
as those who use cars, with lower stress and greater feelings of freedom,
relaxation and excitement.”
A survey of Portland, Oregon, businesses found that bicycling is the
fastest-growing mode of transport for downtown employees’ work commutes, and
Canadian researchers found that 66% of people who commute by walking or biking
are very happy with their commute, compared to 25% of transit users and 32% of
drivers.
But the benefits don’t stop there. By biking to work, you avoid being
stressed out by gas prices and, of course, you’re “doing the right thing”
environmentally. If you think bike commuting is right up your lane, here are
some tips to help you start:
· Ride a bike specially designed
for commuting.
· If there aren’t
designated bike lanes, stay to the right as much as possible.
