News

Mar 10, 2010

Number of children cycling to school in Exeter more than doubles


The number of children cycling to school in Exeter has more than doubled over the past three years.Public health specialists at NHS Devon have welcomed new research which shows a huge increase in the number of people cycling in Exeter.
Research figures published this week show that in the three years since Exeter was chosen as one of six cycling cities, there has been an increase of 126 per cent in children using their bike to get to school.

Also, a third more people are using their bike on a regular basis. Cycling is also having a positive impact on Exeter's most inactive people. Over the last three years the number of people classified as physically inactive has fallen by 10 per cent.

Tracey Polak, NHS Devon's assistant director of public health, said:

"It is great to see so many people in Exeter are choosing to cycle as they will experience enormous health benefits from this.

"But we recognise more can be done, especially among physically inactive people who are putting themselves at increased risk of early death. By becoming active, this risk is dramatically reduced.

"Between 20 and 30 minutes of cycling three times a week can lead to an increase the muscular strength of leg muscles, improvements in chronic conditions and a reduction in blood pressure. Lower cholesterol levels and weight loss can also be achieved."

Public Health Minister Gillian Merron said:

"It is really encouraging to see the positive effect that cycling towns are having on people's health across the whole community.


"The Government's cycling towns programme has shown that, by making the environment safer and more supportive for cycling we can improve public health and make exercise a part of our daily lives."