Finding time for physical activity can be challenging. Fortunately, we can reap significant health benefits through active commuting, which includes walking and cycling to work or school. A recent study sheds light on the long-term health impact of daily active commuting.

The study, conducted in the UK, explores the relationship between participants’ health status and their daily commuting habits. The research involved over 82,000 people aged 16–74, tracked from 2001 to 2018. Tracking involved examining their medical records, including hospital admissions, prescriptions, and deaths. The study focused on comparing the health outcomes of cyclists and pedestrians with those of inactive commuters who do not engage in physical activity during their daily commute.

The study revealed several health benefits for active commuters compared to inactive ones. Cycling had the most significant health impact, being associated with a 51% lower risk of death from cancer, a 47% lower risk of death from any cause, a 24% lower risk of cardiovascular disease, and a 10% lower risk of hospitalization for any cause. The risk of being prescribed medication for mental health problems was also 20% lower.

As for walking, commuting on foot reduced the risk of hospitalization for any cause by 9% and the risk of cardiovascular disease by 10%. The risk of being prescribed medication for mental health problems was also 7% lower.

The study confirms the importance of daily commuting for physical and mental health. It is noteworthy that active commuting has an impact on reducing mental health problems. While cycling is more beneficial, walking still has a significant impact compared to inactive commuting.

So, if you are concerned about your health and don’t have time to exercise, you should find a place to walk or cycle on your way to work every day.