Leaving the car at home can help you be healthier, happier and save money
We're often on auto-pilot when we grab the car keys and jump in the car to nip here, or pop there, but could you take a few journeys on foot or by bike? Take school for example, it's a new term and a good chance to re-think your normal school run journey. Or if you're going to the shops or heading to a friend's house, do you need to take the car?
Why change your journey?
It's good for your health. Whatever your age there is strong scientific evidence that being physically active can help you lead a healthier and happier life. It can be tricky to find the time to exercise every day, but by incorporating it into the journey you're already taking, could be the answer you're looking for.
It can save you money. Services, MOTs, wear and tear, parking and fuel add up over the year, but walking is free and cycling doesn't have to be costly either, so could be a worthwhile investment.
It can be an opportunity to catch up. Walking can also encourage more conversations and is a great bonding opportunity, so its a great time to talk to the kids about their day at school or unwind after a busy day.
What we're doing to help
Since 2021, we have invested £8m in our walking and cycling infrastructure to make walking and cycling easier, safer and more accessible for you. We have built 13km of new walking and cycling schemes in areas across the county to help people leave the car at home and travel actively. You can see some of the new cycle routes here.
What you can do
Try swapping the car for walking or cycling 20 minute journeys. If you sign up to the BetterPoints app, you can get rewarded for walking, cycling or using public transport instead of using the car. For every sustainable journey you make, you'll earn points which can be redeemed for vouchers to spend or can be donated to a charity.
Get inspired and visit the cycling and walking web page for suggested routes and future cycle training opportunities.
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