Biking Health Benefits

Active Commuting Linked to Numerous Health Benefits

A large study recently published in the British Medical Journal finds that active commuting, particularly biking and walking, is associated with multiple health benefits. Results show people who cycle to work have a 46 percent lower risk of heart disease and a 45 percent lower risk of cancer compared to those who have a sedentary commute, like a car or bus ride. Risk of premature death was also lowered by 41 percent. In addition, walking to work also has its benefits, lowering heart disease by 27 percent.

Study authors analyzed commuting habits and health records of more than a quarter of a million people over a five year span. The researchers say initiatives to encourage and support active commuting, especially by cycling, could reduce risk of death and the burden of important chronic conditions. Any opportunity for exercise and physical activity is a good one.

Source: Morales-Celis C, Lyall D, Welsh P, et al. Association between active commuting and incident cardiovascular disease, cancer, and mortality: prospective cohort study. BMJ, 2017; 357: j1456.