VUB to take part in Academic Bicycle Challenge for second time

What is the Academic Bicycle Challenge?
“The ABC is an international initiative that encourages universities around the world to get as many people as possible on their bikes. It’s a challenge that VUB is once again enthusiastically taking part in this year.

Cycling is an appealing mode of transport as well as a sporting activity that combines enjoyment, healthy exercise and climate action. The great thing is that, as a university, we are not only competing against other universities, but faculties, teams and departments can also challenge each other. That extra element of fun makes the ABC even more attractive.”

This isn’t the first time VUB has taken part.
“That’s right. Last year, our students and staff took part for the first time, with great success. Together, they clocked up 25,509 kilometres, earning us an impressive fifth place in the international rankings. Around 180 VUB members signed up for the challenge, of whom 127 actually registered their kilometres. That works out at an average of more than 200 kilometres per participant. Proof that we’re not only strong in brainpower, but also in pedal power. I’m curious to see whether we can beat that achievement this year.”

Why is the ABC such a good match for VUB’s mission?
“VUB wants to be a green university that takes responsibility for the world around us. The motto of former Rector Caroline Pauwels, ‘The world needs you’, is still part of our DNA. We want VUB students and staff not only to gain knowledge, but also to become critical global citizens – people who actively seek solutions rather than simply watching from the sidelines. The ABC fits perfectly with this mission.

Even a simple choice, such as cycling more often, can make a difference. Cycling offers an answer to two major challenges: the climate crisis and the mobility problems facing cities such as Brussels. By getting more people out of their cars and onto their bikes, we can help make a difference.

The previous challenge showed that our collective efforts really can have an impact. By cycling those 25,500 kilometres together in 2025, we avoided an estimated 3,000 kg of CO₂ emissions and 1,250 hours of time spent stuck in traffic.

The ABC is also an opportunity to strengthen the VUB community. The challenge crosses borders and connects us with universities around the world. It’s a great opportunity to make new connections.”

Why should you take part?
“Sustainability is not just about the environment. It’s also about looking after yourself. Physical activity really does make you healthier and happier. Cycling is the perfect way to get started if you want to build more exercise into your daily routine. It’s accessible to almost everyone and easy to incorporate into your commute. I already see many VUB staff and students cycling to the university, but there are still plenty who don’t. With this challenge, we want to get VUB people moving so they can experience the difference for themselves.

People who exercise regularly also tend to achieve better academic results. This was shown in a study by VUB professor Tom Deliens, who followed a large group of students over several years as part of his PhD research. Another finding was that students gain an average of one kilogram per semester. Over a five-year degree, that adds up to 10 kilograms. We all know that being overweight can lead to obesity, cardiovascular disease and other health problems. These are issues students may not be thinking about now, but we want to equip them to prevent them in the future. Getting enough regular exercise can help.

The benefits are clear for employees too. Research shows that physically active employees are more productive and less frequently absent. They have stronger immune systems and are less likely to fall ill. All valuable benefits. And let’s not forget social cohesion. With this challenge, we can all – staff and students alike – contribute to a healthier environment in Brussels while also looking after our own health. That brings people together.”

Is there anything to win?
“No challenge is complete without prizes. This year, the winning team will once again win a guided cycling tour organised by ProVélo.

To make sure no one misses out on the ABC challenge, the VUB Sport team is organising all sorts of fun activities. In October, we will be hosting a number of events together with VUB Mobility Coordinator Maarten Ipers, including a bike repair session, a bike mechanics workshop and indoor cycling. To round things off, we’ll treat all participants to a breakfast of pastries and a drink, just like last year.”

Who can take part?
“Whether you cycle to VUB or simply get on your bike in your free time, every kilometre cycled in October counts. That includes kilometres ridden on an e-bike. The competitive element can be motivating, but above all, I hope that VUB students and staff will discover the joy of cycling in large numbers – both keen cyclists and those who have yet to discover the bike.

Around 30% of people at our university currently take part in sports, whereas Sport Vlaanderen estimates that this should be between 70 and 80%. So there is still work to be done. Even if the ABC encourages just 100 of our 25,000 students and 5,000 staff members to cycle more often, I would consider it a success. Although, of course, I’m hoping for more.

And naturally, we don’t want VUB to finish last in the rankings. Or perhaps we do, because then we’ll make the headlines too,” he laughs. “The most important thing is that participants themselves get something out of it – not just in October, but throughout the year. Perhaps they’ll even inspire others with their enthusiasm and turn cycling into a kind of ‘positive virus’ that keeps spreading.

So: grab the handlebars, take charge of your health and help create a better world. And above all, have fun while you’re doing it.”