There are so many benefits to more people cycling

Last Updated on: January 1, 2021

This article was inspired by a r/BikeCommuting conversation I had a while back. It’s a short list-style article outlining some of the top benefits for cyclists and society at large from having more people choose bikes when they need to move.

Biking is good for local businesses.

When people ride their bikes, they’re more likely to frequent local shops and cafes. https://www.cbc.ca/news/business/biking-lanes-business-health-1.5165954

Biking reduces all cause mortality.

Simply put, if you ride your bike more, you’re less likely to die. (**knock on wood**) “Initiation of, or continued engagement in, cycling late in mid-life is associated with a lower risk of all-cause mortality. It may be suggested that national and local governments prioritize resources to promote cycling.” https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/30342627

FORGET DIET AND EXERCISE—FOR BETTER HEALTH, WE NEED BETTER CITIES

“In the places around the world where people live the longest, they don’t actually pursue health.

They live longer because health ensues from the right environment.” https://t.co/Q3e3AbUlCX
— Druh Farrell (@DruhFarrell) July 7, 2019

Protected bike lanes make for more efficient cities.

Biking has almost no carbon foot print or other noxious emissions

Yes carbon dioxide (CO2) is generated in the production of the bike and bike accessories, however the bike itself is not powered by fossil fuels, so to actually ride a bike you’re not emitting CO2. How much CO2 is your car commute emitting? Find out here: https://mapmyemissions.com/home

Cycling makes you healthier.

Sure being less likely to die as mentioned prior is cool, but how about just being healthier and feeling better? Welp, you can add that to your list of the benefits of cycling as riding your bike does both. Oh, and though this source is from the European Cycling Federation, all their claims about health and wellness from cycling are backed by links to sources! https://ecf.com/news-and-events/news/how-cycling-makes-you-healthier-and-happier

Biking is fun!

2020 US Presidential Candidate Andrew Yang says what many of us cyclists are thinking, yet maybe too timid to express:

I say I ride my bicycle to work because it’s faster and better exercise – but the truth is it’s a lot more fun. 😀
— Andrew Yang🧢🇺🇸 (@AndrewYang) July 9, 2019

Biking, especially bike commuting is an efficient way to work out.

We all know we’re supposed to elevate our heart rate several times per week for cardiovascular health. Bike commuting is a key way to do this, because not only do you get to your destination, who also get a workout in. On a bike you can make this as easy or vigorous as you like, and it’ll always be more of a workout than sitting in a car. And if you bike consistently, you may be able to spend less time in the gym.

Here’s a few more benefits of biking.

It’s cheaper than driving – no gas, potentially less insurance, less wear and tear on your car if you have one.
More cyclists mean less cars and traffic
Biking puts less strain on infrastructure.
Almost no noise pollution
Dramatically less parking burden

I hope this has inspired you to ride! If you need more encouragement check out these other articles on cycling. The Hurdles of Getting Into Biking and How to Get Over Them and 7 Things I Learned When I Started Bicycle Commuting in Portland.

Why do you love to ride? Have a question about getting started? Please let me know in the comments.