The first thing that comes to mind when cycling to work is the money and time saved and of course being active. But an aspect that many commuters will often overlook is that cycling can actually make you better at your job. It not only increases your physical health, it can also be a tool to sharpen your mind, lift your overall mood and sets you up for a more productive day. Here are some science backed ways cycling can be used incorporated into your daily routine to help you be a better you.
1. Morning rides wake up your brain, not just your body
Starting your day on two wheels is uniquely energising. Beyond the obvious benefit to your lungs and your legs, cycling can also stimulate your brain in powerful ways. Moderate aerobic exercise increases blood flow and oxygen to the brain. Accoring to a study in Frontiers in Human Neuroscience, this boost can improve executive functions like memory, information processing speed and mental flexibility.
In simple terms, cycling to work allows you to arrive at your desk feeling mentally switched on and handle complex tasks that might otherwise feel overwhelming first thing in the morning. This alert feeling beats being stuck in overcrowded public transit or stuck in sluggish traffic behind the wheel of your car.
2. Fuels creative thinking and problem solving
Do your best ideas come to you when you are in the shower, out for a walk or doing something repetitive? Cycling works in a similar way and potentially better.
A study conducted by Stanford University found that creative thinking improved by an a whopping 60% when people were moving compared to sitting still. The steady rhythm of pedalling combined with changing scenery helps your brain wander productively. This is not just for artists and designers. If you have an important presentation, need to brainstorm or solving a tricky problem, a morning cycle might just be what you need instead of being stuck in traffic.
3. Lower stress to help you stay calm under pressure
Cycling does not only get your heart rate up, it can make your stress level do down. Regular aerobic exercise trigger the release of endorphins which are your body’s natural mood boosters and reduces cortisol which is the primary stress hormone. A study from the Journal of Psychiatric Research showed that active commuting is linked to lower perceived stress levels throughout the day.
This will be helpful when your workload heats up allowing you to be better equipped to stay calm, think clearly and make thoughtful decisions.
4. More energy, fewer afternoon slumps.
We all know the sluggish feeling that creeps in mid-afternoon, that post-lunch energy crash. A study published in the Journal of Clinical and Diagnostic Research found that people who engaged in moderate exercise experienced less daytime fatigue and greater overall energy.
Why cycling? Cycling helps regulate your circadian rhythm which can help improve your sleep quality and keeps blood sugar levels more stable. This will help avoid that dreaded 3pm slump. This means you will stay focused and engaged through those first meetings without having to rely on that extra cup of coffee.
5. Fewer sick days
Productivity isn’t just about what you do at your desk, it’s also and about how consistently you are there. According to a study by the University of Glasgow involving over 260,000 participants, people who cycled to work had significantly lower risks of cardiovascular disease, cancer and premature death compared to non-active commuters.
A stronger immune system and improved overall health means fewer colds, less days off and more days where you can show up and do your best work. And for employers, healthier employees can result in less healthcare costs and higher team productivity.
Beyond the numbers
Beyond the studies, the simple human truth is cycling to work feels good. You start your day with movement and fresh air rather than behind the wheel stuck in traffic or stuck on the timetable of public transport. Many cyclists say that commuting to work via bike becomes an important part of their daily routine. It’s a chance to wake up the brain and get some clarity before work demands kick in.
Ready to ride your way to a more productive workday?
Cycling to work isn’t just about burning calories or saving money. It’s a proven, powerful way to boost your mental sharpness, creativity, resilience, and overall wellbeing.
And thanks to the Bike to Work scheme, it’s easier and more affordable than ever. You could save up to 52% on a brand new bike and accessories through your employer, making the switch to two wheels a practical choice as well as a healthy one.
