HOW: Riding an E-Bike Can Boost Employee Wellness and Productivity

Riding an e-bike is a fun and convenient way to get around, but did you know that it also has numerous health benefits for employees?

In addition to reducing the carbon footprint and saving money on transportation costs, e-biking has been shown to have positive effects on both physical and mental health. Recent studies highlight the benefits of e-bike use as one specific way to change commuter habits and in turn to improve health and well-being among urban and regional populations.  Let’s take a closer look at the health benefits of riding an e-bike for employees.

Physical Health Benefits
Travel is an essential part of everyday life for most people, and the adoption of active travel represents an efficient way to increase daily physical activity. Due to a growing body of evidence, the UK National Institute of Health and Care Excellence (NICE) now endorse active travel, with a particular focus on commuting, as a feasible method to incorporate physical activity into daily life to improve public health.

One of the most obvious benefits of riding an e-bike is the physical exercise it provides. To stay healthy, the UK Chief Medical Officers’ Physical Activity Guidelines state that adults should try to be active every day. Over a week, activity should add up to at least 150 minutes (2½ hours) of moderate intensity activity in bouts of 10 minutes or more – one way to approach this is to commute by e-bike.

Due to a growing body of evidence, the UK National Institute of Health and Care Excellence (NICE) now endorse active travel, with a particular focus on commuting, as a feasible method to incorporate physical activity into daily life to improve public health.

While e-bikes provide assistance with pedalling, they still require the rider to exert effort and pedal. This can help employees stay active and increase their daily physical activity levels, which has numerous benefits for overall health. Studies have shown that regular exercise can help reduce the risk of chronic conditions such as heart disease, obesity, diabetes, and even certain types of cancer.

Furthermore, riding an e-bike can be easier on the joints and muscles compared to traditional biking, as the motor assistance can help reduce strain and fatigue. This makes e-bikes a great option for those who may have physical limitations or injuries that make traditional biking difficult. It can also help with weight management and improve overall fitness.

the average UK worker takes 4.5 sick days a year; the average cyclist just 2.4 sick days a year.

Mental Health Benefits
In addition to the physical benefits, riding an e-bike can also have positive effects on mental health. One study examining the health benefits of electrically assisted cycling found that participants who regularly rode e-bikes reported decreased stress levels and increased feelings of well-being. The theme ‘mental well-being’ emerged from the participants’ descriptions concerning the positive effect of riding an e-bike. This is likely due to the combination of exercise, fresh air, and the feeling of freedom and control that comes with riding a bike. Exercise has been shown to improve mood and reduce symptoms of anxiety and depression. This is because exercise releases endorphins, which are chemicals that make us feel good.

Commuting can be stressful, but riding an e-bike can provide a more enjoyable and less stressful alternative to driving or taking public transport. Being outdoors and getting fresh air can also have positive effects on mental health. Moreover, e-biking can be a great way to incorporate mindfulness into a daily routine. Mindfulness involves being present in the moment and paying attention to the surrounding environment. When riding an e-bike, employees can focus on the experience of biking, taking in the scenery and enjoying the ride, which can help reduce stress and anxiety.

Productivity Benefits
Studies have shown that regular exercise can boost cognitive function and improve focus and concentration. Riding an e-bike for carbonless commuting can help employees stay fit, reduce stress levels, and improve mental clarity. In turn, these benefits can help employees be more productive at work by increasing energy levels, improving focus, and reducing sick days. According to research by Sustrans, the average UK worker takes 4.5 sick days a year; the average cyclist just 2.4.

Additionally, riding an e-bike can help employees save time and avoid traffic, making them more punctual and reducing stress associated with being late. This can also improve work productivity, as employees who are less stressed and more punctual are generally more productive. With an e-bike, employees can save on fuel costs, parking fees, and public transportation fees. This can free up extra funds that employees can use to invest in their career or personal growth.

Riding an e-bike to work can provide a range of health and productivity benefits for employees. From timesaving to improved physical and mental health, e-bikes offer a cost-effective and eco-friendly way to commute that can help employees be more productive, efficient, and focused in the workplace. As such, employers may want to consider offering e-bike incentives and amenities, such as free-to-use solar e-bike charging, to help their staff make the most of this clean and carbonless commuting option.