Active travel - get going while you're on the move!
We all rely on cars and public transport, because they make our lives so easy. But making active travel choices can be an easy way to fit activity into your day. It can take a little longer and you may not be able to do it for all your journeys, but you may be surprised where you can swap the car or public transport for two legs or two wheels.
If you can walk or cycle instead of driving or taking public transport, it can also be good for your pocket, as well as the environment. So there are even more reasons to give it a go!
Top tips – get going, your way!
Make an easy start
- The furthest parking space could be good for you and your car! If you end up on the furthest side of the car park, or even a couple of blocks away, the walk to and from the car will do you good, and the car is less likely to be dinted by opening doors!
- Try getting off the bus a stop early and walk fast the rest of the way home.
- Carry your groceries home - carrying heavy bags is great for your arms.
- Can you swap the school run for a school walk or school cycle?
- If you’re nipping out to the shop to get a pint of milk, walk or cycle instead of driving.
Step it up
- Try walking or cycling to work if you live close enough. It can work out loads cheaper in the long run.
- If you travel by train, standing rather than sitting means that your body is working harder. And choosing to use the stairs or walking up the escalator also means that you’re getting your heart pumping.
Ready to up the ante?
- Perhaps you could try jogging to or from work or somewhere else that you go regularly, like a friend's house? You could start off with part of the journey and work up to the whole thing over a few weeks. You'll get a great sense of achievement!
More ideas
Try the Transport Direct Cycle Planner - just put in two locations and it will gives you directions. You can choose from the quietest route, the quickest, or the one with the least hills! Go to the Transport Direct Cycle Planner
And for loads more tips and ideas on active travel, have a look at the Sustrans website.