Internal & External Environments
Personal Health and Wellness: Surveys show most of us do not get
enough exercise. Physical inactivity and being overweight are two of
the leading causes of disease and death in Canada. The rise in
prevalence of obesity and physical inactivity that compounds our risk
for cardiovascular disease, diabetes II, and stroke is epidemic.
A disproportionate health burden for stroke, diabetes and heart
disease exists in Canada. In 2006, about 10,000 deaths and $200
million in hospitalization costs occurred in Alberta alone. In Canada
that year, poor diet and inactive lifestyles contributed to more than
25,000 deaths and $560 million in health care costs.
It can be tough to squeeze in a workout at the end of a long day when you find yourself
exhausted with a to-do list a mile long. Cycle commuting is one way to work exercise into your
daily routine. Instead of sitting in a car, you are pedaling across town on your own power, getting
a low-impact cardiovascular workout while your colleagues are just stuck in traffic.
If you are concerned that you are not in shape enough to begin commuting by cycle consider
driving part way to work and parking at a park-and-ride. Or alternating bicycling one day and
taking the bus the other day. You will be in shape in no time!
Bicycle commuting can also eliminate the stress felt while sitting in traffic. You'll feel more
relaxed and refreshed in the morning ready to make a great start. And in the evenings cycling
home will provide you with some needed personal time to unwind before facing family or
roommates.
A Cleaner Environment
The pollution that cars produce causes ground level ozone or smog.
Smog can cause burning eyes, make it difficult to breathe or even
trigger asthma attacks.
Cycle commuting helps by cutting down on the number of trips made
by cars and therefore the amount of pollution released from cars
coming downtown.
There are so many wonderful personal examples of significant benefits
that have been happening simply by cycling to work!
Traffic and Parking:
Most people have been stuck in a traffic jam trying to come into or leave downtown Calgary.
Unless you rent a parking space by the month, it is likely that you have experienced the
frustration of circling like a shark in the hopes of finding a place to leave your car. Cycle
commuting can help alleviate traffic congestion.
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