You won’t be surprised to hear that a lot of people at Sustrans cycle to work
Cycling to work is a great way to incorporate more exercise into your daily routine and many people find it makes them feel more alert and ready to start the day.
Commuting by bike is becoming more and more popular - research from the British Council for Offices recently found that up to 38% of British office workers would consider commuting by bike if their workplace offered better facilities. But is it possible to switch to cycling to work regardless of what facilities are available?
No shower, no problem
You won’t be surprised to hear that a lot of people at Sustrans cycle to work but you may be surprised not all of them shower when they arrive in the office.
In our experience, with the correct preparation and know-how it’s not always necessary to shower after cycling to work (and please don’t think we’re advocating being smelly at work). Changing the way you approach cycling to work may be the answer
Our Top Tips
Here are our top tips to help you on your way whether or not your office has shower facilities.
1. Slow down
Cycling at a leisurely pace means you sweat less and could also make your journey more enjoyable. Leave more time for your journey – that way you’ll also be able to spend some time cooling down on arrival, as well as feeling more relaxed. You might even treat yourself to a breakfast post cycle, perfect.
2. Switch to panniers
If you’ve ever had to carry a backpack on a hot summer’s day you’ll be all too familiar with the problems of a sweaty back. Switching to panniers that attach to your bike can be a revelation and you’ll probably never look back.
3. Leave some clothes at your workplace
One way of getting around a bit of sweat on your cycle in is to leave some clothes at your workplace - having a change of shirt, T-shirt, blouse and socks or tights can help keep you feeling fresh all day long.
4. Use products that don’t need water
From dry shampoo to wet wipes, there are plenty of products out there that can help you freshen up without needing a sink or shower.
5. Invest in an electric bike
Electric bikes are on the rise - you only have to look around our towns and cities to see that - but despite their growing popularity there are still some misconceptions, myths and even snobbery surrounding them. One thing is clear: e-bikes are making cycling more accessible to a new audience, people who may never have considered it as a viable option for commuting, popping to the shops or for leisure.
What's more, they're also making it possible for people who already cycle to keep doing what they love most. Give one a go and you might well be pleasantly surprised.
6. Wear clothing made from natural fibres at work
Natural fibres, such as merino wool, are more comfortable and cause less sweat than synthetic materials.
We believe both employers and employees benefit from workplaces with good facilities for people who want to cycle to work, but we also understand providing such facilities may not always be possible.
If your workplace does not have the facilities you need, you could try suggesting an alternative solution, such as sharing shower facilities with a local gym, swimming pool, hotel, or another office building.
If your workplace has showers
If your workplace has showers, there are still a few things that can make your life easier. Here are our top tips:
1. Keep a spare pair of socks at the your workplace in case of emergencies
There will be rainy days and your feet will get wet sometimes - slipping on a fresh dry pair of socks for the rest of the day can make all the difference.
2. Don't forget your towel
It might sound obvious but drying off after your shower is a lot easier when you have a clean, dry towel to hand. You might want to think about investing in a travel towel - they’re effective, lightweight and dry more quickly than conventional towels.