Why cycle?

There are many reasons why people choose to cycle and many reasons why you should consider it. Cycling, for whatever purpose, has proven health benefits, helping to ensure both your physical and mental wellbeing. There is also a wealth of other benefits, not just for individuals, but also to the wider community.

Health benefits

People who cycle regularly suffer less from ill-health and the risk of serious illness such as heart disease, strokes, cancer, diabetes, obesity and stress is reduced.
Mental health and sense of well-being are improved through regular exercise.

To read more interesting facts and information about the positive effects cycling has on health, visit:

Sustrans

Time and cost benefits

Cycling is the cheapest form of transport aside from walking – and parking is FREE!
It is often the quickest option for many journeys, particularly through towns during rush-hour.
Cycling as part of your daily routine means you can get regular exercise without the additional cost and time needed in going to the gym.

Try British Heart Foundation's cycling calorie counter and find out how many calories you can burn whilst cycling:

Calorie Counter

Environmental benefits

If more people replaced car journeys with cycling, the number of cars on the road would decrease, helping to reduce congestion and CO2 emissions and improve air quality.

For more information on changing the way you travel for the environment, visit:

Sustrans

Other reasons to cycle

Cycling is a great way to simply get fresh air and visit parts of town and countryside you wouldn’t necessarily see by car.
It is an activity that you can either undertake on your own if you fancy a spot of peace and quiet, or you can enjoy it with family and friends, as a social activity.
You can take cycling further by using it to achieve fitness goals, join a cycling club or take part in a sportive or cycling challenge.

To see some of the stunning cycle routes that Northamptonshire has to offer, find out:

Where to cycle