Capitalizing on my commute.

Years ago, my brother-in-law threw down a gauntlet to all us big-talking, wide-walking fitness enthusiasts. He challenged all the exercise overachievers out there – myself included – by asking a general question, "Why would someone drive to work, then drive to a spin studio, then drive home? Just bike to work for cryin-out-loud!"

His point was sharp and it hit home with me. As a health and fitness supporter, I'd been driving to the office, exercising at lunch, and then driving home. This involved city driving, across two bridges, all while paying for gas and trying to make green choices. The hypocrisy gnawed at me. It was attack on my value of integrity and accountability. What's more, my car commute often stretched to 30-45 minutes depending on traffic, while a bike ride typically took a quicker 25-35 minutes, depending on how much effort I put in. If others could do it , why couldn't I? (Gregg W you inspired me!)

The cognitive dissonance was bitter. So, I decided to give cycle commuting a try. Initially, I'll admit, consistency was a challenge. I needed to pack my office clothes in a backpack, and I'd arrive at work needing a shower. After work, I often had to cycle to Langara College to coach basketball before heading home. It felt like a lot. But then, after the birth of my son, I made a game-changing purchase: an e-bike.

Suddenly, everything clicked. I could easily transport my son to daycare and then conquer the 15-kilometer commute to work, scaling steep hills with surprising ease. The best part? I could wear my regular work attire and arrive practically sweat-free, eliminating the need for a shower. This made the shift from riding to working incredibly quick. Plus I still had energy to hit the gym at lunch if I had the time.

Since then, my ability to cycle to work has been a profound benefit of my job, impacting my life in several significant ways:

Idea Generation: Cycling is my mobile think tank

Some of my most creative ideas emerge during my ride to work. It’s as if my mind clears a path for my subconscious to thrive, offering moments of clarity. I'll suddenly grasp a solution for a project, discover a new communication approach for a conflict, or gain a fresh perspective on a challenge. The cardiovascular boost, coupled with that meditative "highway hypnosis", fosters creativity.

Hidden Fitness: Burning bonus calories

As I've gotten older, managing my weight has become increasingly challenging. What once was easy is now a careful calculation of exercise and diet. At 35, this got tough; at 40, even more so. Finding "hidden" fitness in my daily routine has been key. Even with the e-bike's motor, I consistently burn 200 calories each way. These extra calories add up, easily offsetting those weekend beers or desserts.

Mood Changer: Destination happy

I consistently arrive at work and return home in a good mood. Our muscles are incredible endocrine organs, literally pumping antidepressants (myokines) into our bloodstream. This means I'm happy and positive when I get to my desk or rejoin my family. Contrast that with a car commute, and you can imagine the significant difference in my mental state. Considering this positive impact on my mental health, I consider cycling a major quality-of-life improvement. Even for me, as a stalwart defender of the mental benefits of physical activity, I have been surprised by the significance of this impact.

What started as a pragmatic comment from my brother-in-law has evolved into a major consideration for where I work. Before I started cycling a "bike friendly" organization would be a small perk. Today, the cycle-friendliness of the commute and the workplace—how far it is, available bike storage, and shower facilities—would be a significant factor in my decision.