In the UK, thousands of individuals start riding as a means of recreation, exercise, or transportation every year. Cycling has seen a huge uptick in popularity in recent years as more people choose it as a more environmentally friendly alternative to driving.
According to the Department for Transport, the number of people cycling regularly in the UK has increased by 40% over the past decade. In 2019, there were 3.3 million people in the UK who cycled at least once a week, up from 2.4 million in 2009.
One of the main reasons for the increase in cycling is the growing awareness of the benefits of this form of exercise. Regular cycling can improve cardiovascular health, increase muscle strength, and boost mental well-being. It is also a low-impact form of exercise, making it suitable for people of all ages and fitness levels.
Another factor contributing to the rise in cycling is the increasing availability of cycling infrastructure in the UK. In recent years, many cities and towns have invested in bike lanes, cycle routes, and other facilities to make cycling safer and more convenient. This has made it easier for people to choose cycling as their primary mode of transportation, and has encouraged more people to take up cycling for leisure.
The UK government has also played a role in promoting cycling. In 2018, the government launched the “Cycling and Walking Investment Strategy,” which aims to increase the number of people cycling and walking in the UK by 2025. The strategy includes a range of measures to improve cycling infrastructure, promote cycling as a healthy and sustainable form of transportation, and encourage more people to take up cycling.
The increase in cycling has also been driven by the rise of e-bikes, which make cycling more accessible for people who may find it difficult to ride a traditional bike. E-bikes have an electric motor that provides assistance when pedalling, making it easier for riders to climb hills and travel longer distances. The number of e-bike sales in the UK has increased dramatically in recent years, with over 250,000 e-bikes sold in 2019, although they are expected to have dropped to 155,000 in 2022.
In conclusion, the number of people taking up cycling in the UK has increased significantly in recent years. This trend is likely to continue, as more people become aware of the benefits of cycling and the availability of cycling infrastructure improves. With the help of government initiatives and the rise of e-bikes, cycling is becoming an increasingly popular choice for transportation and leisure in the UK.