With the warmer days now arriving in London, I’ve gone and joined the bicycle riding community. My new friend Snow White (aka the white Loft 3i Electra bicycle) and I are having a ball. Each day there is a new adventure to be had.  Whether it’s riding to a client meeting, a yoga class or a brunch date on the other side of London with Laura (Heroine in Heels), it’s making getting around London so much more fun. No more muggy tube rides or people rushing past me on their daily grind. It’s easy, breezy, bicycle lady.

At first I was a tad worried that being an out-of-towner, I would get lost or run over. But after purchasing a cute helmet, a phone holder for my bicycle and a heavy duty lock, there is nothing stopping me.

I can’t say I’m one of those serious bike riders, I’m rather a go-at-my-own pace kinda of gal. I let those fast speedy bikers over take me and don’t worry about the cars behind me. I just love being in control of my own mode of transport. So if you have been thinking about joining the bike riding community, here are few more reasons why you should:

1. Saves Money

After the initial investment of the bicycle and a few bits to go with it, you are going to save on that weekly train/bus/uber fare. Heck, you can now spend that money on a flight somewhere fun! You can even give up that gym membership that you never use as you can do all your exercise on your commutes.

2. Great Exercise

Well without stating the obvious, cycling is great exercise. And it doesn’t really feel like exercise most of the time. You can burn anywhere from 350 – 1000 calories per hour depending on how fast you are going. Easy peasy Japanesey! 

3. Saves Time

Commutes that were usually a 30 minute walk have been cut down to 10 mins! Times that by about  15 outings a week and I’m saving a hell of a lot of time. Which means more time in your day to do things that you want, whatever that may be.

4. Environmentally Friendly

As bicycles don’t require toxic batteries or motor oil they are way better for the environment. And having a smaller carbon footprint on the environment sits well with me. Cycling 10 km each way to work would save over 1500 kg of greenhouse gas emissions each year. I say yes to that.

5. Reduces Stress

Believe it or not, riding bikes has been proven to reduce stress levels. Honestly, I first I found riding the bike quiet stressful but after I got use to the road rules I’ve found it very relaxing.  Personally, I have been finding it super therapeutic for the mind and spirit to have that daily freedom. Wind in your hair, sun on your face, no pushy commuters in sight – it’s bound to make anybody happy.

Are you convinced yet? If not, I would try doing your commute on a Santander bike and see how you like it. And then when you are ready, head over to the Electra website to pick out your cute bike and it can be friends with Snow White! The Electra Loft 3i is super cute, has the most comfortable seat and is a breeze to ride. It is a 3 speed bike which has served me well riding from East to West and back again. I’ve only ever come across one hill where I needed to switch it into the lowest gear.

Well I’m now off to plan my next bike riding adventure!

Big love

x

Phoebe