6th August is Cycle to Work Day 2020! While we’re still enjoying bright nights and nice weather (for Britain!), now might be the perfect time to take up cycling. With the Cycle to Work scheme and some great prizes on offer for Cycle to Work Day, it’s never been easier to take up cycling. Strap your helmet on, saddle up, and check out our guide to cycling to work in 2020!
Cycle to Work Scheme
If you’re wanting to take up cycling, a great place to start is the Cycle to Work scheme*! With the help of the scheme, you’ll be able to save between 25-39% on the cost of a new bike and accessories. You’ll also be able to spread the cost, which should make purchasing a bike more affordable! Bear in mind, your employer will have to be registered to the scheme. Make sure you double check whether they’re registered before you apply!
Cycle to Work Day 2020
There’s an incentive to start, too! 6th August is Cycle to Work Day*, which will give you the opportunity to win some prizes by taking part. All you have to do is download the Love to Ride* app from the Google Play Store or App Store and log your ride on 6th August to be in with the chance of winning. You don’t have to just cycle to work, either; any bike ride you log will count!
Government Cycle Schemes
A government scheme was recently launched on 28th July, offering £50 bike repair vouchers. The scheme is part of a wider incentive to boost cycling and walking, with an initial 50,000 vouchers to be made available online on a first-come, first-served basis.
The prime minister also announced that bicycles will be available from the NHS as part of the strategy. GPs in areas of England with poor health will be encouraged to prescribe cycling, with patients able to access bikes through their local surgery. The plans will be funded by the £2billion investment announced back in February.
Health benefits of cycling
So now you know how to save money on your bike, and how to take part in Cycle to Work Day. But don’t just stop at cycling to work one day! Here’s how taking up cycling long-term could improve your health.
Fitness
Cycling to work is great for your fitness levels! Regular cycling can improve your cardiovascular and aerobic fitness while lowering your blood pressure. It’s also a great way to burn calories and build muscle which, combined with the right diet, can help you achieve your weight loss goals! The exercise also puts less stress on your joints than other forms of cardiovascular exercise like jogging, so can provide long-term health benefits.
Mental health and wellbeing
Going for a bike ride gets you exercising and out into the fresh air; two things that can improve your mood and your mental health! Cycling on your own can give you an opportunity to clear your head and think things through. Alternatively, you could find friends who cycle or join a club to broaden your social circle, too. You could even get competitive and set yourself new cycling challenges!
Cuts the risk of heart disease
A study carried out by researchers from the University of Glasgow suggested that cycling regularly could substantially lower the risk of heart disease. The study, which involved over 200,000 participants, showed a 52% lower risk of death from cardiovascular disease in the active group when compared to the non-active group.
It’s good for the environment
One less car on the road might seem like a small change, but it can make a big difference to the environment! When it comes to emissions, the fewer cars on the road, the better. This is especially true when it comes to shorter journeys which are more easily cyclable.
Helps you avoid traffic
Doing your daily commute on a bike isn’t just good for the environment. It might also help you avoid rush hour! If you find yourself in standstill traffic every day, cycling to work might actually save you some time. And it’s certainly more fun than sitting in your car, waiting for your chance to get on with your journey!
Cycling could help you avoid public transport
While it looks like we’re coming towards the other side of the lockdown, social distancing measures are still in place! It might be a good idea to avoid crowded places and public transport if you’re able. Cycling to work can help you keep off the trains and buses, so you could more easily maintain your distance from others and keep yourself safe.
Cut commuting costs
If you’re used to paying travel costs like fuel, train or bus tickets, cycling to work could significantly cut your daily spending! And don’t forget, you can save money on the price of a bike with the Cycle to Work scheme. Taking up cycling could end up saving you money in the long run!
If you’re thinking about taking up cycling for this year’s Cycle to Work Day, you might want to think about taking out insurance for your bike. At The Insurance Emporium, our Bicycle Insurance allows you to tailor your policy to your needs. Start with cover for Theft, Accidental Loss or Damage as a Standard Benefit. Then, customise your insurance with our range of Optional Benefits, including cover for Competitive Use, Bicycle Accessories or Cycling Clothes. Head on down to The Insurance Emporium to see if we have the policy for you!
* This blog is in no way sponsored, endorsed or administered by, or associated with Cyclescheme, Cycle to Work Day or Love to Ride.
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