Cycling the commute could help more than your fitness
Cycling to work can set you up for the day, it can get you in the right frame of mind and get your metabolism revved up, new research shows it could also help your career too.
Research of over 2,500 cyclists and 100 employers finds women who commute by bike are more productive, more focussed and even felt that they were more likely to get promoted than their colleagues. Tens of thousands of cyclists are expected to reap the benefits today by taking part in the second annual Cycle to Work Day, run by Cyclescheme.
Two thirds of employees who cycle to work say they’ve been more productive since taking up cycling, 64% have become more creative and 77% feel more focused in the office. Eight in ten have more energy and 82% are less stressed. These benefits have clearly impacted performance, leading to 15% even saying that they feel like they have a better chance at progressing in their career than colleagues because they cycle to work.
However, the benefits aren’t solely reserved for the office. The Cycle to Work Day research also reveals cycling can help with work life balance too. Almost nine in ten cyclists agree their daily commute helps them switch off from work, with over two thirds stating it puts them in a better mood for their family or partner in the evenings. Over a third even agree cycling home from work has improved their sex life.
Dame Sarah Storey, the UK’s most decorated Paralympian and Cycle to Work Day ambassador says: “Daily exercise is well known to give people a boost in energy which results in greater productivity and focus – so it makes sense that people who choose to cycle to work are rapidly climbing the career ladder because they are more active than the rest of the workforce. If you’re a bit nervous about rediscovering cycling, Cyclescheme is a great way to build your confidence – as well as giving you access to big discounts on bikes, accessories and stylish clothing.”
Cycle to Work Day was established by Cyclescheme in 2013 to encourage cyclists of all abilities to give cycle commuting a try. This year, it takes place on 4th September with tens of thousands of people taking part. Hundreds of employers have signed up to encourage their staff with many offering a free breakfast to those who cycle to work.
James Borley, Cyclescheme.co.uk, says: “The UK is transforming into a nation of cyclists. We know that this is fantastic news for our health and our wallets, but now we’ve found it’s great for our careers too! Plus, here is irrefutable proof that encouraging cycling could save the economy millions of pounds too. So whether you’re an individual or an employer, don’t be left behind, join the cycling movement this autumn and discover the benefits for yourself.”
Top 10 ways cycling can boost your career
By James Borley, Cyclescheme
We all know that cycling can improve our health and fitness but did you know it can also boost your career too? New research released today to celebrate Cycle to Work Day (4th Sept) reveals for the first time a clear link between cycling to work and career progression. Here’s how:
- 1. Good morning!
Who needs coffee? Start the day cycling and you’ll sure to feel refreshed and raring to go according to 77% of cyclists who said they’re more focused in the mornings since cycling to work.
- 2. Think outside the box
According to our research, 55% of those polled say cycling gives them more time to think up new ideas and strategies for the day ahead. Almost half even say their best ideas occur while they’re cycling.
- 3. Boost your productivity
New research proves those who bike to the boardroom are more productive than their peers. Over two thirds of cyclists (61%) agreed they felt more productive after taking up cycling to work – a third even said their productivity levels were higher than their colleagues’.
- 4. Earn respect from senior staff
If you’re looking for respect from senior managers, don’t waste time offering them endless cappuccinos – start cycling to work instead. Our research shows that 39% of cyclists have gained respect from senior members of staff since taking to two wheels. Almost a third of the 100 employers surveyed also agreed their most valued staff are those who cycle to work.
- 5. Cope under pressure
The workplace can be a stressful environment and according to NHS Direct, at least one in five people suffer from serious workplace stress. Yet, a simple change in commute, can make a huge difference; 82% of cyclists feel less stressed after their morning commute and 46% are more able to manage a heavy workload better since taking up cycling to work.
- 6. Banish the workplace blues
Fed up of being called Mr Grumpy or Mrs Miserable? Believe it or not, cycling into work is a sure fire way to improve your mood in the office. Almost 90% of cyclists agree they are in a much better mood after they cycle. You’ll be even happier if you use a tax free bike scheme like Cyclesheme.co.uk to save at least 25% on all bikes and equipment.
- 7. Pedal up the career ladder
As well as increased productivity, more energy and less stress, a third of cyclists feel they are better at their jobs since taking up a two-wheeled commute. Since cycling to work, 15% even feel like they have a better chance at progressing in their career than their colleagues.
- 8. Reduce your sick days
Not only can cycling help you gain respect from senior staff, it can also put you in favour with your HR department too - 45% of cyclists take fewer sick days than their colleagues due to cycling to work and 53% of employers say their employees that cycle seem to take fewer days off for illness than their colleagues.
- 9. Arrive on time
Fed up of waiting in traffic jams or public transport making you late? Get a head start on your day by cycling to work. Not only can it be quicker and more enjoyable, it can also save you up to £285 a week on transport costs.
- 10. Improve your work/life balance
And finally, if you’re happy at home, chances are you’ll be in a better mood in the office too. Nearly 90% of cyclists say their evening commute helps them switch off from work, whereas 79% even agree it puts them in a better mood for their partners.
Cycle to Work Day is run by Cyclescheme, the leading tax free bike provider. Sign up today to be part of the movement at www.cyclescheme.co.uk
Tagged in Cycling fitness tips