Work

Bicycling to work is a great way to incorporate physical activity into your daily transportation routine and realize the health benefits of regular exercise. However, a number of commonly cited barriers keep many people from bicycling, including:

• Being out of shape
• Commute is too far or takes too long
• No bicycle parking or showers available
• Need to run errands
• Roads are unsafe
• Need to dress up for work
• Bicycle is old or in need of repair
• Bad weather

See the League of American Bicyclists' Fact Sheets to learn how to overcome these common Bike Commuting Excuses

Manuals and other information sources can also help you deal with the logistics of your first active commute and address concerns you may have. The Bicycle Commuter Manual provides useful information about:

• Types of bicycles and how to choose
• Benefits of bicycle commuting
• The gear you will need
• Safety tips and rules of the road
• Selecting the best route to work

One of the best ways for a new bicyclist to feel more comfortable bicycling to work is by learning from someone more experienced. The Bike Buddy Program matches beginners with more experienced cyclists to help reduce the uncertainties associated with bicycle commuting.

Other helpful resources:

The League of American Bicyclists' Commuting Fact Sheet, Riding Without Working Up A Sweat, Urban Bikers' Tricks and Tips (section on packing work clothes and dressing for the ride) and many others in the Resources section of this site.