Riding to work can transform a boring commute into an economical, healthy, time-saving exercise. How that trip ends can make all the difference to you starting your day well and continuing to ride in future.
Most riders will need somewhere to shower and change, a safe place to store their bike during the day and somewhere to put bags of cycling clothes, towel and toiletries during the day as a minimum.
People will avoid riding to work if facilities are not provided. They will also be deterred if what is provided is dirty, inconvenient or insufficient for people to use them and get to work on time.
Many companies in Sydney pride themselves on end-of-trip provision, offering fresh towels, beautiful facilities, toiletries, places to iron clothes – an experience that reminds you of a high end gym or spa to ease you into your working day.
Five At Heart estimates that companies in the City of Sydney alone have spent $57 million on end of trip facilities in the past ten years. If you work in a large building it’s worth asking the building manager what facilities exist. They may have been set up by another tenant, but your manager might be able to negotiate access.
If your workplace doesn’t have end of trip facilities, but there is a nearby gym or pool, that could be a good alternative. Your manager may be able to negotiate a corporate package.
“The advantage for managers is that people who ride a bike to work usually have predictable travel times, and aren’t held up by congestion or breakdowns on roads or public transport. It’s worth providing for these staff so your business keeps running smoothly,” said Bicycle NSW CEO, Alistair Ferguson.
Bicycle NSW encourages managers of organisations to provide end of trip facilities for staff riding for work as these help increase the travel and business resilience of your team. It has also been shows that people who engage in strenuous physical activity at least three times a week have lower levels of sickness absence.
