Healthy Ex­er­cise

More and more people are choosing to use bicycles as they are a healthy, environmentally friendly and economical means of transportation. Many people use bicycles for recreation and some for sports. Cycling is suitable for everyone, young and old, and is particularly family-friendly. The best thing about cycling is that it makes our community calmer, more beautiful, and more fun.

Healthy exercise
Regular exercise is an investment in health and it's never too late to start. Cycling puts less strain on the legs than running or jogging, making cycling a better option for those who suffer from musculoskeletal pain. Cycling also combats inactivity and, if practised regularly, reduces the incidence of musculoskeletal disorders, cancer, coronary heart disease, diabetes, and depression, thus extending life by many years. Cycling therefore reduces the costs of the healthcare system.

Savings for society
Cycling as a means of transportation, for getting between places, can save significant amounts of money compared to other modes of transportation such as private cars. General bicycle use also saves money for society as a whole. If the number of vehicles on city streets decreases, the need for large traffic structures and parking lots decreases. Fewer vehicles also mean savings in the operation and maintenance of the road system, as well as reducing air pollution, suspended particulates, and other things that have a negative impact on public health.

A variety of cycling routes available
Cyclists can choose from a variety of cycling routes. Sidewalks and paths are suitable in many places, especially along main roads and connecting roads. Cyclists can easily ride on the streets, and it is often the easiest and safest way to get around. However, it is not recommended to cycle on roads with heavy and fast traffic. For example, it is comfortable to cycle on streets with low traffic speeds, and they are suitable for anyone who has learned the traffic rules and knows how to behave in traffic.

Safety matters
Cyclists need to be clearly visible, and it pays to be in other road users’ field of vision as much as possible. It is important to have strong and clear lights, white at the front and red at the back. It is mandatory to have lights on when it is dark, and you must make sure they are adjusted correctly. There should be reflectors on the bicycle, both at the front and on the back, on the pedals and in the spokes. Bicycles should also have a bell so that others can be warned when cycling past. Reflective vests or clothing in bright colours increase visibility and are therefore recommended. A good helmet is one of the most important pieces of safety equipment for cyclists.

Here are a few cycling facts:

• Cycling is healthy and it reduces costs for society.

• The bicycle is environmentally friendly; it does not pollute and does not cause noise.

• Cycling is family-friendly as everyone can do it.

• On a bicycle we are free from traffic jams.

• On a bicycle, we can enjoy the outdoors and nature.

• The bicycle is an economical means of transportation.

Vörður wants to promote healthy exercise, and a healthy lifestyle, as good nutrition and daily exercise are essential foundations for a healthy life. Regular exercise has multiple health benefits, it reduces the risk of disease, increases the quality of life, and prolongs our lives. Exercising is social responsibility in action, and by participating, customers and Vörður support the United Nations' third Global Goal on Health and Well-Being together.