A recent study at the University of Glasgow, published in the British Medical Journal, indicates that those people who bicycle to work are 41 percent less likely to develop heart disease and cancer. While walking has clearly outlined benefits, it does not provide the same payback as bicycling.
The test was conducted with 264,337 people; compared to driving, cycling is linked to a 46 percent lower risk of cardiovascular disease. The same study demonstrated that walking reduced heart disease by 27 percent, but showed no links between lower risks of cancer or premature death.
Researchers and experts believe that the high health benefits of cycling may be linked to the fact that cyclists often travel longer distances, and exercise at higher intensities.
Dr. Jason Gill, a professor and scientist who helped execute the study, believes that the government should legislate easier ways for people to commute by bike, including the creation of “cycle lanes, city bike hire, subsidized cycle purchase schemes, and increasing provision for cycles on public transport.” These efforts have the potential to create significant opportunities for improvement of public health.
Perhaps most importantly, it is imperative to make physical activity both ‘easier and more accessible.’ Workplaces, local authorities, and the legislature should investigate ways to increase and enhance public transport—making it an ‘easy option’ to get to work.
