Cycling and Health

One of the most powerful arguments for encouraging more people to cycle is that it would lead to considerable improvements in public health. Regular cycling improves fitness significantly; reducing obesity, the risk of strokes, coronary heart disease (CHD), certain types of cancer, diabetes and osteoporosis. The Copenhagen Heart Study (2000) concluded that those who did not cycle to work experienced a 39% higher mortality rate than those who did. There are also benefits for mental health, with evidence of reduced depression and stress, improved self- esteem and confidence in performing physical tasks.

According to the Health Survey for England, 60% of men and 70% of women are not active enough to benefit their health. Young people are increasingly less active too -the National Diet and Nutrition Survey in 1999 found that 40% of young males and 60% of young females do not meet the recommended hour a day of physical activity. Treating obesity costs the NHS at least £ 1 /2 billion a year. The wider costs to the economy in lower productivity and lost output could be a further £2 billion each year.

Cycling is particularly ideal as a form of physical activity as it can be readily included in the daily routine. Cycling to work can provide this physical activity during time that is otherwise wasted, whereas visiting a gym requires additional time, incurs a relatively significant financial cost, and is less likely to be maintained. Some employers are able to provide workplace facilities, although again the employee has to make time for this and there is the cost to the employer. Reviews of workplace physical activity programmes suggest that activities such as cycling which can be built into the daily routine may be both more acceptable and more cost efficient than formal workplace programmes.