Why cycle in the city?
Besides walking, the healthiest and most climate-neutral way to get around is cycling. The Faculty of Physical Education and Physiotherapy conducts research on commuter cyclists.
Cycling appears to have plenty of beneficial health effects: people who hop on their bikes are more attentive at work, they have a better mood, and live longer in good health.
The life expectancy of a cyclist is higher than that of a car driver. Cyclists still gain eight months of life thanks to the favourable effects of cycling on their cholesterol levels and cardiovascular system.
On the flip side though: what about air pollution and the risk of accidents?
The risk of accidents costs them seven days of life, while air pollution shortens their life by 21 days. So all in all, cyclists gain about seven months in a lifetime. Reason enough to hop on your bike!
Tip for healthy air
When commuting by bike, we recommend you opt for parallel roads with less traffic. Because while cycling through the capital, cyclists are exposed to air pollution. Research by VUB shows that the number of fine dust particles inhaled by a cyclist is four times higher than those inhaled by a car driver on the same route. Map out a route with the Brussels Bikeroute Planner or cycle.travel. Make sure you avoid busy traffic hotspots.
Tip for safe roads
VUB keeps pleading with the authorities for safer cycling infrastructure around its campuses - and successfully so! Because cyclists are actually at a higher risk of accident than car drivers. The Fraiteur Bridge now boasts both a cycling and walking path, and a cycling path has also been built in front of the train station. Danger spots are being made safer one step at a time.
