How The Catalyst is encouraging active travel

Active travel is one of the most effective ways to promote routine physical activity, and here at The Catalyst, we have stepped our facilities up a gear to improve the experience of cycling to work.

Our award-winning building is home to a dynamic community of businesses and research specialists in the data and healthy ageing sectors, and we pride ourselves on our supportive environment and specialist facilities that support the health and wellbeing of our customers.

We have recently installed a bike repair station and bike lock storage, so you won’t have to worry about maintenance or safekeeping after your cycle to work. Fully equipped with a track pump, chain oil, puncture repair kits, chain splitters, pliers, and cable ties, we have the tools you need to make simple repairs and tweaks to get you home after a busy day.

And whether you’re walking, jogging, or cycling to work, The Catalyst is equipped with showers to freshen up and a drying room for the unpredictable British weather!

Despite vast improvements in cycling facilities across the UK, a recent Ipsos survey found that just 5% of the UK population cycle to work or school, which is far behind the world-leading 30% in the Netherlands. With that in mind, we thought we’d share some benefits of getting on your bike and utilising our new facilities!

Increased brain power

 Yes, really! It has been proven in academic studies that increases in cardio-respiratory fitness are correlated with higher results in mental tests. Cycling can aid in the growth of new brain cells in the section of the brain responsible for memory, increasing oxygen and blood flow.

Improved mental health

It is often overlooked how effective an active lifestyle is for combatting stress. A simple cycle or jog to work each morning can improve your mental health significantly. While partaking in aerobic exercise, your lungs are lifted from your diaphragm which lifts pressure from your nerve centre and generally relieves stress from the body.

Improved physical health

The most obvious benefit to cycling and jogging is improving your physical health. However, you might be surprised at just how many extra benefits a daily cycle can provide. In a study of twins by King’s College London, it was proved that three 45-minute bike rides a week resulted in a biological health difference of nine years! Regular exercise greatly decreases chances of heart problems, diabetes, cancer, and high blood pressure.

Saving the Planet

One of the biggest factors of air and noise pollution in cities are cars and transportation. Cycling cuts out your contribution to these emissions entirely – while benefitting your physical and mental health! If more people opt for cycling over driving cars, the need for the paving of roads to cater for all these vehicles is cut, promoting biodiversity and greenery in city centres in the long term.

So, whatever your reasoning for switching up your daily commute, take advantage of our facilities and see how a bit of pedal power can benefit your life!