From 1 to 31 October, the Vrije Universiteit Brussel (VUB) will take part in the Academic Bicycle Challenge, or ABC for short. The main goal? To challenge all VUB members – students and staff alike – to rack up as many cycling kilometres as possible. Participants not only compete with fellow VUB members but also with international universities and faculties. Dirk Van de Wiele (aka Dixie), head of VUB’s Movement and Sport department and an avid cyclist himself, will help kick off the campaign.
What is the Academic Bicycle Challenge?
“The ABC is an international initiative encouraging universities around the world to get on their bikes as much as possible. It’s a challenge that VUB is enthusiastically joining this year.”
“Cycling is appealing both as a means of transport and as a sport, combining enjoyment, healthy exercise, and climate protection. The fun part is that, as a university, we don’t just compete against other universities – faculties, teams, and departments can challenge each other too. That extra element of fun makes ABC even more attractive.”
Why does ABC align perfectly with VUB’s mission?
“VUB aims to be a green university that takes responsibility in the world. The motto of former Rector Caroline Pauwels, ‘The world needs you,’ is still embedded in our DNA.”
“We want VUB members not only to acquire knowledge but also to become critical global citizens – citizens who actively seek solutions rather than standing on the sidelines. ABC fits perfectly with this mission.”
“Even a simple choice like cycling more often creates impact. Cycling addresses two major challenges: the climate crisis and the mobility problem in large cities such as Brussels. By getting more people out of cars and onto bikes, we make a real difference. ABC is also an opportunity to strengthen the VUB network. The challenge goes beyond borders and connects us with universities worldwide – a great chance to make new contacts.”
“By getting more people out of cars and onto bikes, we help make a difference.”
Why take part?
“Sustainability isn’t just about the environment. It’s also about taking care of yourself. Being active makes you truly healthier and happier. Cycling is the perfect way for anyone to get some extra exercise. It’s achievable for almost everyone and can easily be incorporated into your daily commute. I already see many VUB members cycling to the university, but there are still plenty who don’t. With this challenge, we want to get VUB members moving so they can experience the difference for themselves.”
“Regular exercise also leads to better academic results. This was shown in a study by VUB Professor Tom Deliens, who followed a large group of students over several years during his doctorate. Another finding was that students gain, on average, one kilo per semester. Over a five-year degree, that adds up to 10 kilos. We all know that being overweight can lead to obesity, cardiovascular disease, and other health issues. Students may not think about this now, but we want to help them prevent it. Getting enough exercise makes a real difference.”
“The benefits are clear for employees as well. Research shows that active staff are more productive and take fewer sick days. They have stronger immunity and fall ill less often. All valuable advantages. And let’s not forget social cohesion. With this challenge, both staff and students contribute to a healthier living environment in Brussels and to our own wellbeing. That brings people together.”
“Being active makes you truly healthier and happier. With this challenge, we want to get students and staff moving so they can experience the difference for themselves.”
Are there prizes to be won?
“No challenge without prizes. Participants can expect fun rewards. Not only the top cyclists, but also lucky winners will have the chance to win great prizes that make cycling even more enjoyable. Think bike bags, helmets, shoulder bags…”
“To make sure no one misses the ABC challenge, the VUB Sport team is organising plenty of playful activities. From mid-September, we’ll be on campus weekly with fun competitions on stationary bikes to get VUB members excited for ABC. Participants will receive a retro VUB cycling cap. VUB Mobility Coordinator Maarten Ipers and the VUB Info Point team also have lots planned to promote ABC, including a free bike repair session. At the end, all participants will be treated to a delicious cycling breakfast.”
“At the end, all participants will be treated to a delicious cycling breakfast.”
Who can take part?
“Whether you cycle to VUB or pedal in your free time, every kilometre in October counts. That includes kilometres covered on an e-bike. The competitive element can be motivating, but I mainly hope that VUB members experience the joy of cycling on a large scale – both avid cyclists and those who haven’t yet discovered the bike.”
“The sport participation rate at our university is around 30%, whereas Sport Flanders suggests it should be 70 to 80%. So there’s still work to be done. Even if just 100 of our 25,000 students and 5,000 staff members cycle more often thanks to ABC, that’s a success in my eyes. Of course, I hope for more. And of course, as VUB, we don’t want to finish last in the ranking… or maybe we do, because that would make the press (laughs). The most important thing is that participants benefit personally – not just in October, but all year round. Perhaps they even inspire others with their enthusiasm, turning cycling into a kind of ‘positive virus’ that keeps spreading. So: grab the handlebars, take charge of your health, contribute to a better world, and most importantly – have fun while doing it.”
How to take part?
The challenge starts on 1 October, but you can register now. How does it work? Simple!
- Download the free Naviki app.
- Select ABC, indicate VUB as your institution, and then choose your faculty or department.
- Hop on your bike and record the kilometres you cycle.
Everyone at VUB (including UZ staff) can take part. And yes, kilometres on your e-bike count too!