Cycling is a great way to improve your health, fitness and mental wellbeing. Cycling is also particularly good for reducing your chance of developing a serious illness, such as a heart attack or stroke.
Cycling provides the opportunity to reach destinations that might be a little too far on foot. Did you know that you can cycle up to 5 miles (8 kilometres) in just half an hour? From your home, you can reach most of the Marsh Barton area in about 10 minutes on a bike, giving you access to a large range of amenities.
All you need to get started is a bike, a bike lock and a helmet. Try Facebook Marketplace, Freecycle or eBay for a second-hand bike. Or ask if your employer offers a Cycle to Work scheme, where you can get a shiny, new, tax-free bike that you pay for in bite-sized chunks through PAYE.
Check out this free resource from Park Tools to help you maintain your bike. If you don’t fancy having a go at maintenance yourself, try Partridge Cycles or another local bike shop that can offer regular servicing and emergency maintenance.
Sustrans aims to make it easier for people to walk and cycle. Click on the link to find lots of tips to help you stay safe and make the most of cycling opportunities in Devon.
Looking for a long-distance cycle route? Why not try NCN2, which connects St Austell to Dover.
Want to get your hands on a free or discounted bike? Don’t forget to use your voucher, which can be redeemed against a bike or cycling equipment at Partridges.