by Betsy O'Grady, student in the Spring 2025 UVM Public Communications class.
Believe it or not, choosing biking over vehicular transportation may be the solution to decreasing high rates of stress and anxiety many Americans face today. The simple act of biking offers a powerful yet often overlooked remedy for enhancing mental well-being. For many Americans, the daily troubles of sitting in traffic, navigating busy roads, and dealing with road rage has become a key source of frustration and exhaustion. Studies have shown that long commutes by car are correlated to higher stress levels, increased risk of depression, and decreased overall life satisfaction. Meanwhile, those who choose to bike instead report feeling happier, more energized, and less stressed. Not only is biking a form of transportation, it’s a natural mood booster. It provides a connection with the environment and makes exercise a mindless activity. As car dependency continues to be the norm for transportation in the United States, it’s essential to recognize the mental health benefits of choosing two wheels over four.
Long car commutes are more than just an inconvenience – they are a significant source of stress and anxiety that have a negative impact on mental well-being. Studies have shown that longer commute times can have a detrimental impact on mental health. An Australian study found that individuals who spend more than six hours a week commuting by car experience a significant decline in mental health scores. The results from the study suggest that commuting time should be considered as an additional work-related time stressor. The frustration of congested roads, unpredictable delays, and the isolation of sitting alone in a vehicle, are overlooked factors that are likely to contribute to higher levels of stress and anxiety. Long car commutes leave workers exhausted before they even arrive at the office. As traffic congestion continues to rise, it is significant to recognize the toll that car dependency has on mental health. Exploring healthier and more sustainable alternatives, such as biking, may be the answer to managing stress levels.
Car commutes don’t just contribute to decreased mental well-being, they also limit the amount of free time before and after work. Getting adequate exercise is essential to maintaining a healthy mind-body connection. If someone is sitting in hours of traffic before and after work, they may not be able to find the time to get the exercise needed. Exercise releases endorphins, which decrease stress levels and improve mood. Choosing to bike as an alternative form of transportation provides daily movement without the structure of a typical gym workout. A study published by the Journal of Transport & Health in 2019 examined why cyclists are the happiest commuters. The study concluded that there are four main reasons cyclists are happier throughout their daily commutes compared to those who use cars: “1) A high degree of commuting control and ‘arrival time reliability’; 2) Enjoyable levels of sensory stimulation; 3) The ‘feel better’ effects of moderate intensity exercise; and 4) Greater opportunities for social interaction.” By
replacing stressful car commutes with a bike ride, individuals can transform a stressful part of their day into an opportunity for exercise, improving mental clarity and overall well-being.
It’s time to stop accepting long, stressful car commutes as an unavoidable part of daily life. Sitting in traffic, battling road rage and feeling drained before the day even starts is no way to live. For those who are struggling with stress management and anxiety, it is time to consider the numerous benefits that come from using bikes as a form of transportation. Biking isn’t just a practical way to get around; it’s a powerful tool that connects an individual to the environment around them. Cities should be doing more to prioritize safe biking routes, but until they do, individuals can take initiative by choosing two wheels instead of four whenever it's possible. The benefits are undeniable, not only for the environment but also an individual's mental well-being. By choosing two wheels over four people will be in better moods, less stressed, and have a stronger connection to the world around us. With warm weather right around the corner, it’s time to ditch the car commute and embrace a healthier, happier way of transportation.