Editor:
As Intermediate Level Education class 2011-01 begins, the Command and General Staff College bicycle racks are slowly filling. A recent informal count on a warm summer morning revealed only 37 bikes in the 27 convenient racks provided by the college. So, I applaud the 37 individuals who chose to pedal rather than drive to class.
As for the drivers, I offer three reasons to hang up your car keys and dust off your bike: Bicycle commuting improves your health, saves money and does not damage the environment.
Bicycling is good for your body and your mind. According to recent scientific studies, regular cycling improves cardiovascular fitness, lowers cholesterol and decreases the risk of heart attack. Even as little as 10 to 15 minutes of exercise a day can provide significant health benefits.
In addition to physical health, cycling has been shown to improve psychological health. According to a 2001 study, just 10 minutes of cycling “improved mood, increased vigor, reduced feelings of fatigue, and helped participants feel more clear-headed.” So how about trading that morning coffee for a brisk bike ride to class?
Commuting by bicycle saves money. Leaving the car at home avoids the obvious costs of gasoline. Additionally, lowering the annual mileage on your vehicle equates to lower maintenance costs and a less frequent need to purchase a new car. Although bicycles also require occasional maintenance and repairs, bike shops are generally much easier on your wallet than the local auto mechanic.
Biking to work does not harm the environment. Motor vehicles are the primary cause of air pollution in the United States. In addition, attempts to relieve motor vehicle congestion result in the continuous paving of green space. Finally, motor vehicles produce noise pollution, but bicycles are nearly silent. So, if not for you, how about riding to work for the environment?
Of course, there are some hurdles to bicycle commuting such as cargo capacity, vehicular traffic and shower facilities. As a regular bicycle commuter I know these hurdles can be overcome. I hope to see you at the bike rack in the morning.
Maj. Scott Gregg
CGSC Class 2010-02
Physical Therapist (and avid cyclist)
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Editor:
As Intermediate Level Education class 2011-01 begins, the Command and General Staff College bicycle racks are slowly filling. A recent informal count on a warm summer morning revealed only 37 bikes in the 27 convenient racks provided by the college. So, I applaud the 37 individuals who chose to pedal rather than drive to class.
As for the drivers, I offer three reasons to hang up your car keys and dust off your bike: Bicycle commuting improves your health, saves money and does not damage the environment.
Bicycling is good for your body and your mind. According to recent scientific studies, regular cycling improves cardiovascular fitness, lowers cholesterol and decreases the risk of heart attack. Even as little as 10 to 15 minutes of exercise a day can provide significant health benefits.
In addition to physical health, cycling has been shown to improve psychological health. According to a 2001 study, just 10 minutes of cycling “improved mood, increased vigor, reduced feelings of fatigue, and helped participants feel more clear-headed.” So how about trading that morning coffee for a brisk bike ride to class?
Commuting by bicycle saves money. Leaving the car at home avoids the obvious costs of gasoline. Additionally, lowering the annual mileage on your vehicle equates to lower maintenance costs and a less frequent need to purchase a new car. Although bicycles also require occasional maintenance and repairs, bike shops are generally much easier on your wallet than the local auto mechanic.
Biking to work does not harm the environment. Motor vehicles are the primary cause of air pollution in the United States. In addition, attempts to relieve motor vehicle congestion result in the continuous paving of green space. Finally, motor vehicles produce noise pollution, but bicycles are nearly silent. So, if not for you, how about riding to work for the environment?
Of course, there are some hurdles to bicycle commuting such as cargo capacity, vehicular traffic and shower facilities. As a regular bicycle commuter I know these hurdles can be overcome. I hope to see you at the bike rack in the morning.
Maj. Scott Gregg
CGSC Class 2010-02
Physical Therapist (and avid cyclist)
