Cycling is getting the nation healthy

Cycling is increasing in popularity across the UK, with the associated health benefits becoming more and more apparent.

Those who get on the saddle are likely to smoke and drink less, experience less workplace stress and eating better than their non-cycling counterparts.

As well as the broader health benefits, a new study shows that alcohol consumption in cyclists has apparently dropped by nearly a third, whilst tobacco intake is down by 20%.

The ‘Cycling 10:10’ report announced the findings after studying 10,000 cycling commuters over the last 10 years. The study also found that around 7% of England’s workers are now commuting with pedal power, but there is a 2:1 difference ratio between men and women cycling to work

Commentating on the report, Richard Grigsby, founder of Cyclescheme, said; “This report shows that we currently have the momentum we need for a ‘cycling revolution’ to take off, but we need to capitalise on this and show individuals that the benefits outweigh many of the barriers,”

The report wasn’t all positive however, as it also suggested that there are still plenty of barriers stopping people getting on their bikes, such as an insufficient cycling infrastructure and a lack of employer support.

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