Organizers of Powell River’s Bike to Work and School Week are encouraging more people to dust off their bikes and don helmets this year.
With the numbers of Canadians, both adult and children, struggling to participate in enough daily exercise, this is an opportunity to make a positive change. And not only that, riders will be helping to clean up the air.
For the past four years registration in the event has remained at around 150 in Powell River while other communities in BC have seen increases. Powell River can do better.
When asked about why more do not give bike commuting a try, commonly heard excuses include the challenge of Powell River’s hills, traffic safety and not feeling comfortable arriving at work with an extra morning “glow.” But let’s face it, these excuses are pretty weak and with a little preparation and extra care cycling can be an enjoyable and safe way to travel.
Those who do commute regularly on their bikes say they appreciate the calming effect that a morning bike ride has for them and that it does not take much more planning to make sure that work clothes can be available at the office beforehand. Then, on the ride home in the evening, cyclists can push a little harder to burn off the day’s stress and get a good workout. The added bonus is that, with a shower available at home, what’s a little extra “glow” at the end of the day?
Daily exercise, which many claim they do not have time for, is taken care of when biking is incorporated into the day for transportation.
Great improvements have been and continue to be made to improve Powell River’s roads to accommodate cyclists and make them safer and more accessible. The City of Powell River, with the help of Powell River Cycling Association, has created a 10-year cycling infrastructure plan that will develop a network of bike lanes and improve the ease of cyclists who are commuting and those who ride for pleasure.
Bad habits die hard. And changing routines can seem insurmountable. No one is saying, though, that everyone should sell their cars and become completely dependent on cycling. But why not use this as an opportunity to try something out of the ordinary?
With the recent warm weather Powell River has been enjoying and the clear conditions on the roads, now is a great time to try something new with Bike to Work and School Week.
