Physical activity such as cycling to work brings huge benefits for both employees and employers, the chartered body for safety and health professionals said today.

Across the UK, thousands of workers were arriving at work on their bikes today, as part of the annual Cycle to Work Day. The Institution of Occupational Safety and Health (IOSH) is encouraging them to ensure it is not a one-off, and to cycle to work on a regular basis. Doing so can help them to be more healthy, boost their wellbeing and, as a result, be more productive.

Ruth Wilkinson, Head of Health and Safety at IOSH, said: “Cycle to Work Day is a great initiative as it really highlights the benefits of physical activity for everyone. As well as the clear health benefits, physical activity, such as riding a bike, releases endorphins which help people feel good about themselves. So there are clear wellbeing benefits as well. Why wouldn’t you want that feel-good factor to start the day?”

Ruth continued: “This leads to increased productivity, so there are some real benefits for organisations as well as individuals. What organisation wouldn’t want healthy, motivated and productive staff. And there is of course the added benefit of helping the environment. We encourage people to not only cycle to work on this one particular day, but as regularly as possible. If you are able to, leave your car at home or forget about public transport and get on your bike.”

Ruth concluded: “In addition to cycling to work, there are many more ways that organisations can encourage activities which promote health and wellbeing and bring about real business benefits.”

Cycle to Work Day is organised by a partnership of Cycle Scheme, Cannondale and Specialized.