Riding a bike isn’t just a way to get from point A to point B. It’s a lifestyle choice that’s good for your health and for the planet. At BulkBar, we care deeply about people’s well-being. Countless studies have shown that regular physical activity, like cycling, has a positive impact on both physical and mental health. So isn’t it time to swap the car for a bike on your daily commute? Here’s how biking to work can transform your everyday routine for the better.
A healthy and eco-friendly way to commute
When you bike to work, you’re combining exercise with everyday movement. It’s a gentle, low-impact form of physical activity that keeps your body moving without putting too much strain on your joints. Just make sure your bike is properly adjusted and you follow basic safety rules.
Cycling brings all the benefits of cardio exercise. It strengthens your heart, even at low intensity, and improves lung capacity and endurance. Simply put, being active is good for your health.
And it’s great for the environment too. According to the French Agency for Ecological Transition (ADEME), the carbon footprint of a bike is 10 times lower than that of a car. A bike produces around 21g of CO₂ per km, compared to 220g per km for a gas-powered vehicle. Whether you’re riding a traditional or electric bike, the difference is massive.
Biking to work — aka bike commuting —kills two birds with one stone. You get regular exercise and reduce your environmental impact at the same time.
A simple and stress-free mobility solution
Cycling is far less stressful than being stuck in traffic. You can skip the gridlock and enjoy the calm of dedicated bike lanes. No more worrying about being late or hunting for a parking spot. Bike racks are easy to find in most cities, and if not, you can ask your employer to provide one for secure storage.
Cycling also helps mentally. It gets you in the right mindset before work and helps clear your head at the end of the day. A study from the University of Cambridge and the Brain Research Federation shows that physical activity boosts brain function, improving memory, focus, creativity and learning ability. In other words, when you bike to work, you are more productive, healthier and happier on the job.
And if you don’t own a bike yet, no worries. Bike rental programs are widely available. No more excuses not to start biking to work.
Bike to work and save money
Biking to work is incredibly cost-effective. No fuel needed, no expensive vehicle purchase. Plus, local and national governments often provide financial incentives for cycling.
If the upfront cost of buying a bike is a concern, many companies now offer bike leasing options for employees. That way, you can test out the experience and see if this active mode of commuting fits your lifestyle.
Maintenance costs are also low. Roughly 100€ per year. Compared to owning a car, that’s a major savings.
A growing trend in Belgium and France
In Belgium, most employers are fully on board with cycling. A huge 92% offer a bike-to-work allowance. As city centers become more bike-friendly, this option is becoming both practical and enjoyable.
In France, 60% of commutes under 5 km are still done by car, even though that same distance takes just 10 minutes on foot or 3 to 4 minutes by bike. France is catching up, however, thanks to the Bike-to-Work Mileage Allowance and programs like Pro-Vélo Employer Objective. Over 100 companies are already certified, with 1.400 more in the process.
This certification gives businesses access to grants and funding to improve bike facilities. Backed by the French government, this plan helps companies encourage employees to adopt bike commuting.
Fuel your ride with the right nutrition
Cycling to work takes more energy than driving or taking public transport, so it’s important to adjust your diet accordingly. Nuts and dried fruits are your best friends.
After your morning bike to work ride, snacking on almonds, walnuts or dried fruits helps you refuel and stay sharp all day. On your way home, a quick bite before you leave the office can make your return ride easier and more enjoyable.
And don’t forget to stay hydrated. The general recommendation is to drink at least 1.5 liters of water per day, but you’ll need more when you’re adding regular physical activity into your routine.
In conclusion
Choosing to bike to work isn’t just an eco-friendly decision. It’s an investment in your health and quality of life. Active commuting improves both body and mind.
And with the right snacks like nuts and dried fruits, you’ll boost your energy, focus and productivity, while keeping stress levels down. It’s a winning formula for better well-being at work.
Published on 17/07/2024
