4. Healthy Movement: More Steps, Less Stress. Hop on Your Bike!
We’ve already explored the importance of both physical and mental well-being, as well as the value of understanding your environmental footprint. Now, we want to highlight the significant benefits of cycling, a topic that’s currently generating much debate. While some remain skeptical, seeking reasons to dismiss it, the reality is that in our cities, excessive car use leads to traffic congestion—inefficient and detrimental to our health(1). While public transport offers an alternative, cycling provides unparalleled freedom of movement in your daily life.
The bicycle is an incredibly efficient machine. With minimal human effort, it allows you to cover substantial distances, ideal for daily commutes within and even beyond city limits(2). Although cities largely adapted to car use in the last century, many are now shifting towards bicycle-friendly infrastructure. This evolution aims to attract more cyclists by creating safe and comfortable riding environments(3).
Cycling offers more than just improved physical fitness; it also enhances mental clarity. You’ll arrive at your destination—school or work— feeling more refreshed and “oxygenated,” and your return journey can serve as a valuable stress reliever, as supported by numerous studies.
Skeptics often raise concerns about the safety of cycling. However, with the right infrastructure, it can be a safe and reliable mode of transportation. Remember, there’s a bicycle for everyone, including three-wheeled options designed for individuals with mobility challenges. Even if you don’t cycle yourself, you can promote its use by simply respecting cyclists’ space when driving.
As our urban landscapes evolve to favor cycling, you’ll likely find yourself increasingly motivated to incorporate it into your routine. And if you’re already a regular cyclist, always remember to adhere to traffic regulations and prioritize the principles of the mobility pyramid.
Reference #1 - International Transport Forum (ITF). (2024). Improving the quality of walking and cycling in cities: Summary and conclusions
International Transport Forum (ITF). (2024). Improving the quality of walking and cycling in cities: Summary and conclusions (ITF Roundtable Reports, No. 193). OECD Publishing. https://doi.org/10.1787/cdeb3fe8-en
Reference 2 - Anthony Blazevich (2025). Cycling can be 4 times more efficient than walking. A biomechanics expert explains why.
Anthony Blazevich (13 julio 2025). Cycling can be 4 times more efficient than walking. A biomechanics expert explains why. Professor of Biomechanics, Edith Cowan University.
https://doi.org/10.64628/AA.4tpreusta
Reference 3 - Buehler, Ralph & Teoman, Denis Can & Shelton, Brian. (2021). Promoting Bicycling in Car-Oriented Cities: Lessons from Washington, DC and Frankfurt Am Main, Germany.
Buehler, Ralph & Teoman, Denis Can & Shelton, Brian. (2021). Promoting Bicycling in Car-Oriented Cities: Lessons from Washington, DC and Frankfurt Am Main, Germany. Urban Science. 5. 10.3390/urbansci5030058.
https://www.researchgate.net/publication/354320666_Promoting_Bicycling_in_Car-Oriented_Cities_Lessons_from_Washington_DC_and_Frankfurt_Am_Main_Germany
Reference 4 - Bicycle NSW - Making local streets safe for bikes (2024).
Making local streets safe for bikes (May 11, 2024). Bicycle nsw org au
https://bicyclensw.org.au/making-local-streets-safe-for-bikes/
Reference 5 - Fiets hangar - Case studies - Our bike storage solutions.
Fiets hangar – Case studies – Our bike storage solutions –
https://www.fietshangar.nl/case-studies
Reference 6 - Dutch Cycling Embassy - New Underwater Bike Parking at Amsterdam Central Station (2023)
Dutch Cycling Embassy
New Underwater Bike Parking at Amsterdam Central Station
(26 January 2023)
https://dutchcycling.nl/knowledge/cycling-news/new-underwater-bike-parking-at-amsterdam-central-station/
Now, tell us:
Would you use your bike every day?
If your city had safe bike ways(4), bike hangars(5) outside your home, and parking at public transportation, schools, offices, stores, etc.(6)
What are you waiting for to make the switch to a bike-friendly city!
Share your comments with us!
