Cycling to and from work is an excellent activity in that it allows you to both get to work and be physically active. It also reduces your commuting expenses, allows you to start your day off energized, helps to reduce stress levels and contributes to reducing air pollution and climate change because you are not driving.

What's stopping you from cycling to work? Below are responses to some common concerns:

• It's too far to ride.
  Start out slowly. Test your distance on the weekend to determine if it is appropriate for you. The average person can bike 3.5 km in 15 minutes. Still too far? Consider driving partway and riding the rest! The exercise will help you start your workday energized!
• It takes too long.
  In urban areas, the bicycle is considered the speediest mode of transportation! All things considered, trips under 3 km are usually completed faster by bike; under 5 km equal to the car. Try timing it sometime. Even if the trip by bike is 10 minutes longer, consider the fact that you are also getting your daily exercise.
• I'm out of shape.
  By leaving yourself plenty of time when you first start out, you'll find cycling no more difficult than walking. The more you commute by bicycle, the easier it will become and you will naturally increase your speed and endurance. (It is a good idea to consult your physician before beginning any regular exercise routine.)
• I can't afford a good commuting bicycle.
  Any bike will do! There is no need to get a top-end bicycle when you're just starting out. It will provide little added benefit. The money you save by cycling instead of driving will quickly be returned. Consider this: with the fixed cost of operating an automobile at $.30/km, the average 10 km commuter trip taken by bike instead of the car, would save you $800 a year!
• There's no secure place for my bike.
  Find out if there is a storage room in your building or if you can keep your bicycle in your office. If not, you can check out nearby supervised parking areas. If you can find a few other coworkers interested, consider approaching management about obtaining bicycle parking facilities. See Resources ( link ) for our Factsheet: Theft? Not with Your Bike .
• I can't shower at work.
  By keeping a leisurely pace, you can often avoid the need for a shower. If you still feel like you do need a shower, try the following: wait ten minutes after arriving at work in order to cool down, then use a washcloth, soap and a towel and freshen up in the restroom. Some cycling and outdoor stores sell washing up gels, cloths and quick-dry towels. Alternatively, transfer your fitness club membership to a location near work and shower there. Are there many of you interested in a shower at work? Consider approaching management to install a shower.
• I have to dress nicely for work.
  By taking it easy, many commuters can simply wear their business attire to work. Keep an extra set of clothes at work in case of poor weather. Other cycling commuters wear casual, comfortable clothes to work and change once they are at the office. (Bike panniers are an excellent way to carry clothes, toiletries and materials needed at the office.) Professional-looking, iron-free travel wear can be found at outdoor recreational clothing stores. Consider buying an iron and board for the workplace change room/staff room with other coworkers.
• I can't bike in the rain and cold.
  Cycling can be a year round way to commute. Although there will be days when it is better to leave your bike at home, investment in the proper clothing and equipment can make cycling in almost any weather possible! Look for our factsheet Cold and Wet Weather Cycling in the Resources ( link to section below) section for detailed information on cycling in inclement weather.
• It's not safe to ride in traffic or at night.
  Many people feel cycling is not safe. In actuality, when done properly and defensively, cycling can be safer than driving. Two behavior guidelines to follow at all times are: always be visible and be predictable by following the rules of the road. Ensure you have the proper equipment - especially a helmet and reflectors/lights. Don't go without these. Check out our factsheet: Safe Riding in the Resources ( link to section below) section to assist you in a safe and enjoyable commute.
• I need my car for work.
  This challenge may require a bit of creativity. Some possible answers: consider whether some of your business tasks can be carried out on a bike; assign your out-of-office tasks to a specific day -€“ drive on that day only; investigate as to whether there are workplace vehicles available for your tasks. If you really want to bike, commit to solving this challenge.
• My bike is uncomfortable.
  Cycling should not make you sore or uncomfortable. Ensure that your bike fits you properly by being fitted by a professional. They may adjust the seat height, handle bar settings, etc. to ensure your riding is enjoyable. Anatomically suited saddles, grips, cycling shorts and gloves will all help reduce any discomfort. Talk to your cycle specialist.

- Adapted from material gathered by the Greater Victoria Cycling Coalition.

Visit the City of Toronto 's Commuter Cycling pages for more commuter cycling information.