AS WE are all trying to recover amidst the pandemic, the outdoor is a treat after being forced to stay at home so as not to catch and spread the virus.
While outdoor exercises are still limited and is under strict regulations, other alternatives like cycling is gaining popularity that we saw the increase of sales in bicycles in the past months.
Aside from bicycle as a mean of exercise, the bicycle boom is rooted in common sense: it is much easier to comply with social distancing guidelines when you're riding a bike out in the open than in an enclosed and
potentially crowded space such as a bus or a train.
In addition, the overall decrease in car traffic and the temporary speed limit reductions implemented by some jurisdictions are making city streets a lot friendlier to cyclists.
The government have seen this and have made proposals to delegate spaces for bicycle lanes to cater to bikers and make sure that they are safe.
As one cycling advocate lamented, not only is cycling a good means of exercise fit for this pandemic and the regulations that are set to combat it, its shooting two birds with one stone so to speak as it is also a very economical way of transportation.
Using bicycle for exercise and transportation is also good for the environment as it does not emit any gas that contributes in pollution.
The renewed interest for bicycles is not seen as just a passing fad. As more and more enthusiasts, cycling groups and supporting public officials call for the creation of a new normal after the pandemic subsides, the transport community has a small window of opportunity to build on this shift and make cycling an integral part of an environment friendly and healthier future.
As the social media term goes, shout out to our beloved local government officials and maybe even those able and willing donors to support the creation of cycling ordinance and create cycling lanes that can be used by everyone either long time cyclist or beginners wanting to learn and eventually use bike as their mode of exercise or transportation.
As we move through this pandemic let us always keep ourselves healthy through physical fitness and following of regulations and protocols this is the only way we can truly "HEAL AS ONE!"