Bike to Work Day – May 17th, 2012
Posted on: May 14, 2012Categories: LiveWell 24/7There have been studies which indicate that a long, stressful commute can be bad for your health. A new study, released this month in the American Journal of Preventative Medicine, which notes that adults with longer commutes tend to weight more, have higher blood pressure, and have more dangerous belly fat. Good thing May is Bike Month, and this Thursday is Bike to Work Day!
More and more, employers are getting on board and supporting their cycling employees by adding showers, bike racks, and even incentives for those who choose a method other than driving. If your boss isn’t pro-biking yet, consider telling them about how much money it could save the company, by making employees healthier. Bosses love that kind of thing.
Of course, if you’re routinely driving more than, say, 20 miles to work, getting up at the crack of dawn to cycle may not sound appealing. But consider the money you would save: with a 20-mile commute, you could stow an extra $160 per month, just by switching gears. Not only that, but cycling to work is great for your heart, lungs, and overall health, which means no more worrying about trying to fit in a workout–or a doctor’s appointment–on your way home or your lunch break.
History of Bike to Work Day:
National Bike to Work Day was started by the League of American Bicyclists, who also promotes Bike Week and Bike Month during the month of May. Since its origin, this day has grown and developed into a nationwide event. Local, regional, and national bicycle advocacy groups participate to encourage people to commute to work using a bicycle. There are even pit stops along some bicycle routes that provide cyclists with snacks and drinks!
Join thousands of other Americans today for the Annual Bike to Work Day. Whether you are environmentally conscious or just love the exercise, biking to work is a great way to avoid the commuter traffic and stay in shape!
And don’t forget: Bike to Work Day is this Thursday!