The Social Side of Cycling

Habits start young and can last a lifetime. For me, cycling has always been part of who I am. It began with my mum picking me up from preschool on her bike, then riding with my brothers to primary school, and later, cycling alone to high school when my brothers left for school so late it made me feel stressed. From there, it carried me through university and now, to work. I keep cycling because I love it. It's affordable, enjoyable, sustainable, and most importantly to me, it's a wonderfully social way to travel.

We often hear about the environmental and physical health benefits of walking, scooting, and cycling, but what about the social benefits? There’s a unique power in how these modes of transport connect us with others.

When you’re on foot or two wheels, it’s easy to roll up alongside someone for a quick chat, cross the street to greet a familiar face, or even adjust your route to extend a conversation just a bit longer. For me, that’s what makes active travel so amazing.

Cycling to work, I often bump into friends along the way. We might ride together for a few blocks, catch up on life, and then part ways. Other times, it's just a quick hello or wave, but these small, unexpected interactions brighten my day and make cycling even more enjoyable.

It’s not just with friends either. Sometimes, it's as simple as exchanging a smile with a stranger or greeting the man who walks his dog every morning. These brief moments of connection bring a sense of joy, help me feel part of a community, and put a smile on my face.

In a world where social isolation is becoming more common, finding ways to connect with others throughout the day has never been more important. How often have you found yourself in a car at an intersection, spotting a friend in a nearby vehicle? You might wave or hope your telepathic powers will make them notice you, but more often than not, the moment passes, and you're left in your own little bubble. When you’re on a bike or on foot, though, it’s much harder to miss a familiar face. You can call out, share a laugh, or stop for a brief chat without the barriers that cars create.

So, tomorrow, when you're deciding how to get from A to B, think about the unintended social moments your choice could bring. You might just find that your commute becomes a lot more enjoyable and connected.