Life's Better by Bike
Whether you’re dusting off your bike after a winter indoors or looking for ways to kickstart your summer on two wheels, cycling is a great way to boost your mood, improve your health, and leave the car at home.
New cycle routes in Hampshire are ready to be enjoyed. Forget being stuck in traffic jams on hot, summer days; it’s time to feel the breeze as you whizz past traffic, listening to the sounds of nature as you enjoy time spent with friends and family.
Top Five Reasons Life's Better by Bike
It boosts your mood
Cycling is a great way to be active, as not only does it improve mood and self-esteem through feel-good hormones, but it also offers an opportunity to connect with others.
Socialising with friends and family can often help you feel better mentally, and what better way to do so than by enjoying the great outdoors with a social cycle?
It’s low impact
No matter who you are, cycling is low-impact as it relieves pressure on your joints. It also makes a great activity for those with a disability or differing needs. With a range of bikes available, including e-bikes, tricycles, and hand cycles, cycling continues to become more accessible. Many organisations now also provide companions for blind and visually impaired cyclists.
It gives nature a helping hand
The more we drop four wheels in favour of two, the better for the air that we breathe and for Hampshire’s environment.
Did you know that over 47% of carbon emissions in Hampshire come from transport, with over 65% of this coming from private vehicle use? This means that we can all do our bit to reduce our contribution to the county’s carbon emissions.
With 71% of car journeys in the UK being under five miles, you can make a huge difference with a small change when you swap your car for a bike.
It’s strength building
Cycling uses a range of muscles in your legs, abdomen, back and even your arms for stability. This can help to build strength and balance, which is important for a healthy body.
It lets you explore the outdoors
You go further when you cycle than when you walk, meaning you can explore new areas locally or across Hampshire. Where will you discover next?
How to get started
Accessing a bike
If you don’t own a bike, don’t worry. There are ways to access bikes for free or at low-cost, such as at second-hand bike shops or freecycle sites, which can help get you started on your cycling adventure.
East Hampshire locals can also access free cycle hire from Cycle Sphere here.
Planning your route
There are a number of free online planning tools such as CycleStreets to help you plan a route. Many district and borough councils also have local walking and cycling maps for their area that show the locations of cycle routes. You can find yours here.
Join a community
The power of a like-minded community can do wonders for keeping you motivated as you swap your car for a bike. If you’re in Southampton, explore Love to Ride Solent, a free website and app that lets you track your rides, compete in challenges and talk with fellow cyclists.
Other resources
Free cycle sessions in Havant | Bikeability
Free bike hire for East Hampshire residents | Cycle Sphere
Get cycling | My Journey Hampshire
Cycling safety and maintenance | My Journey Hampshire
Inclusive Cycling - Go Cycling | Bikeability
Cycle routes in the Hampshire Countryside | Hampshire County Council
The National Cycle Network | Sustrans
Finding Inclusive Support
Everyone deserves to feel empowered to get cycling, and there are lots of options for disabled people and those with differing needs.
Ready to take it one step further?
What better way to incorporate cycling into your day than by making it your commute?
You don’t have to go from zero to hero – even one or two days a week can make a big difference to your health and wellbeing, and to the local environment.
Here are our top tips for cycling to work:
- Speak to other cycling commuters
There may be a staff network or colleague you can speak to for advice on routes and facilities - Plan the route
It's likely that cycling a different route to the one you drive will be more enjoyable, especially if you’re using cycle paths and traveling through green spaces - Consider a test ride
At the weekend to help you gauge how long the ride will take - Don’t worry about riding the whole way
It might be that you reduce the distance by using public transport or driving some of the way if necessary - Think about what you’ll be wearing
A change of clothes and warm layers will make a big difference to your comfort and overall warmth, especially in the colder months - Consider some equipment to help
You carry things on your bike, such as panniers, courier bags or bike packing bags – they’ll make a big difference, and you can often get them second hand.