The UK government founded the cycle to work scheme in 1999-2000 to promote a healthier lifestyle and reduce pollution simultaneously. With growing concern over unhealthy and sedentary lifestyles, this scheme served as a double-edged sword that encourages professionals by giving them specific financial incentives while also combatting the ever-increasing pollution levels. Since its inception, this scheme has become popular among corporates across the globe and has been adopted by many to suit their requirement.
Cycle to Work Scheme is a great benefit for employees. It provides an affordable and convenient way to purchase a bike and safety related equipment for commuting to work. It is a salary benefit scheme, meaning that you pay for the bike and equipment through salary deductions spread over time, allowing you to spread the cost and save on tax and National Insurance. It also has health benefits, as cycling can help to improve physical and mental wellbeing, reduce stress and boost morale. Additionally, it helps to reduce an employee’s carbon footprint and can be a great way to get to know the local area.
You might also want to get into mountain biking.
Most working professionals get little time to exercise, which puts them at risk of various health issues such as obesity, heart disease, cancer, mental illness, diabetes, etc. According to Planet X, the cycle to work scheme provides multiple benefits to employees who opt for it. Here are a few.
- Cost saving – If you plan to purchase a cycle irrespective of the scheme, this initiative usually offers employees a tax-free, interest-free loan that can be repaid over 1-2 years, depending on the company. Subject to the company in question, there might be variations in their policy. This is something employees will need to consider before taking it up.
- Health and wellness – Cycling is an excellent way to improve overall health. This exercise is particularly suited to work professionals who do not have the luxury of time. Cycling reduces stress, pumps your heart, strengthens your muscles, and gives you sufficient energy to get through the day at your workplace, unlike lifting weights.
- Environment friendly – Cycling does not burn fossil fuels other than one’s body fat! It can considerably minimise your carbon footprint compared to driving a vehicle to work. With growing concern over climate change and how human activities affect the planet, encouraging working professionals around the globe to take up cycling could be a fool-proof means to combat pollution and improve global health.
- Time-saving – Have you ever noticed the traffic snarl in the mornings and evenings? Most of the people stuck in that traffic jam are usually office goers. We could minimise congestion considerably if we opt for cycling. It saves time and money we spend on fuel, besides improving your overall health.
- Better productivity – Better health is also a good indicator of increased productivity for the company. Less absenteeism due to ill health, more focus on the task, and improved performance. Why would anyone not want to be a superstar in their circle of influence?
- Improved social interaction – Most working professionals tend to reserve themselves to their job and interact only with a handful of people throughout their tenure. While there is nothing with it, it limits the possibilities of fruitful associations that allow the company to flourish. Additionally, various activities can be arranged for cycling enthusiasts, encouraging social interaction and bonding among company employees.
In conclusion, the cycle to work scheme is a simple yet very effective measure adopted by many developed countries such as the UK, Netherlands, Germany, France, and Japan. Many of these countries have already seen a notable difference in the environment and overall health of people who adopted this lifestyle. So what’s keeping you from adopting it?