The Benefits of Active Travel
Did you know that around 60% of car journeys in the UK are under 5 miles? Walking or cycling could replace many of these short trips, promoting better health and a cleaner environment. Switching from cars to active travel for short journeys can significantly reduce CO2 emissions, as cars are less fuel-efficient during frequent start-stop traffic. But what does ditching your car for cycling really look like, and how practical is it? We asked GP Practice Manager Stef Coombs to swap her car for one of The Active Way’s e-bike for one whole week.
Read on to hear Stef’s story…
The commute
My 6 km car commute takes 10 minutes, but I planned a different route for my e-bike commute to avoid traffic. I picked up the cycle track from Kilmersdon to Radstock. The e-bike commute was 7.6 km, taking 22 minutes to get to work and 27 minutes to get home —uphill all the way! The e-bike made cycling home up big hills possible, which I couldn’t manage on a regular bike since knee surgery.
The first few days, I felt wobbly and unsure about gears—the bike has 9 manual gears and three levels of electric assist. But after a few days, I mastered it and felt confident navigating potholes and even horse poo! Each day at around 3 pm, I’d start thinking about the ride home, feeling tired and wishing for my car. But by 6 pm, I’d change and hop on the bike, and within minutes, I was so glad to be cycling.
To finish the week in style, my husband (on a regular bike) and I cycled 36 km to our favourite café in Frome on Sunday morning for coffee and cake. I loved every minute. One main reason for this longer trip was to test the battery—it only used 45%, which is impressive.
What have been the benefits?
- I loved getting outside after work; the ride home helped me process the day, and I arrived happy and energised.
- It introduced regular exercise into my daily routine.
- Being active improved my mood and helped me manage stress.
- Daily cycling improved my sleep quality.
- Overall, it boosted my energy and made me want to be more active!
Stef’s top tops for switching to an e-bike
- As a result of cycling each day I have become slightly obsessed with the weather and check the forecast frequently. It is worth getting yourself some waterproof trousers and coat – carry these even if it’s not raining and put them on BEFORE! you get wet.
- Panniers are a lifesaver if you have a lot of stuff (paperwork, lunch, bike lock, waterproofs) to carry around.
- Mud guards – do not underestimate how wet and muddy you get without them.
- Give yourself enough time. With work starting at 8 am, I left home on the bike at 7 am, ensuring I had enough time to get changed and prepared once at work.
So, what next?
I am a convert! I have enjoyed cycling each day and have ordered myself an e-bike. Realistically, I can only commute on it two days a week due to other commitments, but I’ll eagerly anticipate those days and more weekend adventures!
The Active Way are here to help
Huge thanks to Stef for sharing her active travel adventure! We’re here to support your journey too, whether it’s boosting your confidence in walking or cycling or providing access to bikes and e-bikes. Discover our free programme of activities by clicking the “Our Activities” button homepage.
