Employee vitality: companies must invest massively in bicycles

Employee vitality is higher on the agenda than ever. Organizations are looking for ways to reduce stress, lower absenteeism, and increase sustainable employability. Yet, many companies are missing one of the most effective and simple interventions: MISUSE.

Recent British research among more than 500,000 people shows that regular cycling reduces the risk of dementia 19% reduces the risk of Alzheimer's disease 22% and the risk of young-onset dementia even with 40%Brain scans show that cyclists have more gray matter in the hippocampus—the brain region responsible for memory, orientation, and mental resilience.

In short: Cycling not only improves fitness, but especially mental vitality. And that is precisely where companies gain enormously.

Cycling for vitality: more than just exercise

Anyone who cycles knows that the benefits go beyond physical fitness. During a gravel ride on the Veluwe, with views of the beautiful heathland, perhaps even a wild boar, it becomes clear how cycling creates mental space. The crunch of the gravel, the steady cadence, the natural surroundings—the body moves, the mind relaxes. All cyclists will recognize this.

But cycling also teaches us to cope with headwinds. Sometimes it feels like an invisible force is pushing, and you have to slog to get ahead. This is precisely what employees on busy workdays and companies in challenging times recognize.

Cycling develops mental resilience — a crucial competence for sustainable employability.

Why employers should encourage cycling

Employee vitality is no longer a luxury, but a strategic necessity. Organizations that invest in bicycles see benefits on several fronts:

• Higher energy level
• Better concentration and focus
• Lower stress levels
• Less absenteeism due to illness
• Stronger team dynamics
• More positive work culture

Whether it's commuting on an e-bike, sporty rides on a racing bike, team outings on gravel bikes or mountain bike training — cycling offers a wide range of possibilities to boost vitality.

How to increase employee vitality with bicycles

1. Facilitate employees to go cycling

Without good facilities, even the most motivated employee won't get on their bike.

Essential facilities:

• Covered and secured bicycle shed
• Charging points for e-bikes
• Showers and changing rooms
• Lockers for clothes and bags
• Basic repair point (pump, tire levers, multi-tool)

These facilities form the basis for a company that focuses on vitality and cycling.

2. Make cycling financially attractive

Money is a powerful motivator — especially when it removes barriers.

Popular measures:

• Bicycle leasing for e-bikes, racing bikes, mountain bikes or gravel bikes
• Mileage allowance for commuting and business trips
• Annual bicycle budget (maintenance, tours, clothing)
• Discount on participation in sporting events

3. Activate employees with a cycling program

Provide structure, motivation, and experience with an annual program like our vitality program.

Parts:

• Challenges (regularity, distance, elevation gain)
• Beginner programs with clinics (including steering, braking, cornering, climbing, descending)
• Technique training for road bikes, MTBs and gravel bikes
• Maintenance workshops
• Company cycling days, team tours, participation in an event

Vital employees are not only created through exercise, but also through lasting motivation.

4. Create a social cycling culture

People keep cycling if they do it together.

Recommended initiatives:

• Internal Strava club or cycling community
• Group rides for different levels
• Buddy system for new cyclists
• Theme weeks such as Gravel Week or Climbing Challenge

A social cycling culture strengthens cooperation and fun.

5. Make cycling an experience

Experience is the fuel of sustainable motivation.

Ideas to inspire:

• Annual company challenge at home or abroad
• Inspirational sessions with athletes or coaches
• Competitions between departments
• Share cycling stories via intranet or newsletter

Cycling becomes more than just exercise: it becomes part of the company culture.

6. Measure the impact of vitality and cycling

Measuring = knowing = optimising.

Meet among other things:

• Stress levels
• Sleep quality
• Energy during the day
• Sick leave
• Commuting by bicycle

Return results and show: cycling works.

Conclusion: Investing in bicycles is investing in vital employees

Employee vitality determines the success of organizations. Cycling is one of the most efficient, accessible, and proven ways to increase energy, motivation, and sustainable employability.

Whether you have a tailwind or a headwind, companies that integrate cycling into their vitality policy build stronger, healthier, and more engaged organizations.

Fit employees ensure a fit company.

Neem contact met ons op als je meer wilt weten over ons vitaliteitsprogramma.
Gerrit Vermeulen
06-21244820
gv@cyclosportive.nl