What are the benefits of cycling for children?

Childhood obesity remains a serious public health concern in the UK. In England, Department of Health statistics from the 2023–2024 academic year show obesity prevalence was 9.6% among children in reception, rising to 22.1% by year six. Incorporating just a few short cycles each week can help reduce this risk in a simple, natural and enjoyable way.

NHS guidelines recommend children aged five to 18 engage in at least 60 minutes of moderate to vigorous physical activity every day. Cycling is a fun and engaging way to meet this recommendation which young people can carry through into adulthood.

Can cycling improve mental health?

Yes – I have seen firsthand the huge positive effect cycling can have on mental health. I speak about this most days with my clients and many say it’s one of the reasons they cycle in the first place. Regular physical activity triggers the release of endorphins, which are often described as the body’s natural mood lifters. People who exercise regularly tend to report lower levels of anxiety and stress, with research consistently linking physical activity with reduced rates of depression.

Being outside adds another layer of benefit. Exposure to fresh air, natural light and nature has a positive effect on mental clarity and mood. For many people, cycling is not simply exercise or transport but time away from screens, from traffic noise and from the demands of the day.

Cycling can also be a very sociable activity. Group rides, cycling clubs and commuting communities offer connection and shared purpose, which can be especially valuable for people who live alone, work from home, or are new to cycling.

Can cycling improve focus and cognitive performance?

The health benefits of cycling can extend to school, work and academic performance too, with positive effects on cognitive function. Some studies have shown a direct benefit link from the area of the brain responsible for thinking and memory skills to exercise.

For working adults this means that rather than sitting in traffic or on a packed commuter train, you arrive at work having already oxygenated your brain and cleared your head.

For students and children, the same principle applies. Building regular physical activity into the school day or the commute to school could support learning and concentration in the classroom.

What are the environmental benefits of cycling?

Transport is consistently among the UK’s largest contributors to carbon emissions. Cycling UK says cycling is a simple lifestyle choice that will help reduce your personal carbon footprint. I recognise it might be extreme for some to solely cycle every day, however even swapping a few short car journeys a week will reduce the number of cars on the road, and these small steps can in turn, improve air quality in towns and cities.

You can read more environmental benefits on the Cycling UK website.

Can cycling save you money?

Cycling requires an upfront investment - a suitable bike, a helmet, lights and basic maintenance equipment – but Cycling UK says the ongoing costs are minimal compared to the daily expense of running a car or relying on public transport.

For regular commuters, the savings can include the cost of daily train or bus fares, parking charges and petrol.

Many employers participate in the government’s Cycle to Work Scheme, where staff can purchase a bike and equipment tax-efficiently, spreading the cost and reducing the upfront barrier to getting started.

There are also brilliant organisations out there to help children build their confidence on bikes, like Bikeability, but many campaigners believe as a country we should be doing more to allow every child the access to a bicycle should they want one.

What advice would you give to people starting to cycle?