General

Q: I haven’t been on a bike in years, so I'm a bit uneasy about bicycle commuting. How can I ease into it?

A: Probably the best way to change your lifestyle is to start gradually. Read our tips for Getting Started, and then begin by taking short bike rides around your neighborhood. After you are comfortable on the bike, you may want to do a test trip to your workplace on the weekend to get used to the route when there is less traffic. Then try biking to work on one day each week. You can add more days as you get comfortable and start enjoying the benefits of regular bicycle commuting.

Q: How can I fit bicycle commuting into a busy schedule?

A: For short commutes (less than 3 miles), riding a bicycle may actually be faster than driving a car. Although longer commutes will naturally take longer by bicycle, remember that the time you spend riding to and from work can take the place of going to the gym, leaving more time to spend on other activities.

 Q: What are some ideas for using Active Transportation if your workplace is too far to walk or bicycle?

A: You may want to consider using more than one mode of transportation for your commute. In more urban areas, using the public transit system for part of your trip may be a good option. Many of these systems will accommodate bicycles, so you can bike from your home to the transit station and from the destination station to your workplace.

Q: How can I include my children in Active Transportation?

A: You can walk or bike with your children to school, to the library or park, and to run errands. To make it easier to walk or bike with young children, you can purchase a jogging stroller or a trailer that attaches to your bike. Encouraging older children to walk or bike will promote healthy habits that they can enjoy throughout their lives. Organizing a walk or bike to school program is another great way to get children involved. The Walk to School website has detailed information on how to organize walking and bicycling events.

Q: I have a disability that makes it difficult for me to exercise regularly. Are there ways for me to use Active Transportation?

A: Of course it will be important for you to consult with your doctor before beginning a new physical activity program. Think creatively about ways that you can walk or wheel yourself during your normal day. Walking even short distances can provide benefits, including increased strength, stamina, and energy. If you are in a wheelchair, try wheeling on short distance errands.

Q: How can I avoid arriving to work sweaty after an active commute?

A: Many people carry a change of clothing in bags that attach to their bicycles. If your workplace does not have shower facilities, you can usually wash and change in the bathroom. Don’t be afraid to advocate for facilities like workplace showers that would facilitate active trips to the workplace.