A bike is 30 times less expensive to buy and maintain then a car.Last year I wrote the Bicycle as a great solution. It was full of compelling reasons the bike is a great solution to a lot of our countries issues.

Check it out here.

With Bike to Work Day this Friday May 18th I wanted to share a few reasons why you should considered riding to work at the least, some days.

  • It’s Fun
  • You’ll arrive feeling better
  • You Save Money

It’s Fun

Riding is certainly more fun than sitting in your car. Set a goal for yourself. Maybe once a week, two or three times a month. Then be sure to track it. Goals that you track are more likely to be accomplished. Make your initial goal something easy for you to achieve. Picking a modest goal will allow you to ride to work on the “Chamber of Commerce Days” so you get comfortable with it.

These are fun goals that you should look forward to completing. After all, work may not be fun, it should be, but riding to work will certainly start the day off right.

You’ll Arrive Feeling Better

“Increased Productivity – Bicyclists and walkers arrive at work with less stress than those who commute by automobile. The Berkeley Wellness Letter reports that “chronic exposure to traffic congestion produces an increase in baseline blood pressure, lowering of frustration tolerance, increases in negative mood, and aggressive driving habits.” In contrast, bicyclists and walkers often report feeling relaxed and more alert after arriving at work, ready for a more productive day.”

Source: biketoworkmetrodc.org.  http://www.biketoworkmetrodc.org/employer-resources/benefits-of-bicyling-in-the-workplace

Feeling better and being healthier is always a good thing.

You’ll Save Money

You’ll also save money. Both on your medical bills and on your parking costs.

“According to the Centers for Disease Control, moderate physical activity (such as bicycling to work) saves 5 to 12 percent in annual medical costs, compared with a 6.5 percent savings from employees who don’t smoke.” Biketoworkmetrodc.org

Increasing your activity will decrease your absenteeism at work. While that may not sound like a great reason it does mean that you’ll be healthier when you’re not at work allowing you to have more fun.

Fewer miles on your car, especially commuting miles in traffic means less wear and tear and maintenance.

Be sure to check out tomorrow’s post. 5 Steps to Start Commuting to Work.