If you cycle to work, you could cut your risk of cancer and heart disease by half, according to a fascinating study recently published in the BMJ and reported on here by the BBC.
250,000 UK commuters took part in the five-year study which also showed that walking had some benefits over sitting on public transport or driving.
During the course of the study, regular cycling cut the risk of death from any cause by 41%, the incidence of cancer by 45% and heart disease by 46%.  The cyclists clocked an average of 30 miles per week, but the further they cycled the greater the health boon.  Walking cut the odds of developing heart disease but the benefit was mostly for people walking more than six miles per week.
So, if you don’t already, it’s time to consider ditching the car or public transport in favour of two wheels or two feet.  Why not find an ‘active commuter’ buddy to join you and keep you motivated.  And for those who of you who live too far away from your place of work, see if you can find an opportunity to walk or cycle when you get home.