Ever wondered how your commuting experience differs to others? Each month we share the story of a real Cyclescheme cycle commuter and ask them seven questions to sum up their experience from their two-wheeled commute. This month, it's Chris.
Each month we feature one Cyclescheme participant and share their commuting story. We ask the same seven questions (hence the name, The Cyclescheme Seven) in a bid to build up a picture of cycle commuters across the UK. From John O'Groats to Lands End we scour the country for the real cycle commuters who take to their bike each morning. If you'd like to feature on our website, just drop us a line on: socialmedia@cyclescheme.co.uk with "I'm in' in the subject line.
This month we caught up with Chris to see how his commute has changed his life.
CS: Where in the UK are you?
Ingleby Barwick, Stockton on Tees
CS: What was your main motivation for getting a bike through Cyclescheme?
I changed jobs to one that was closer to home and wanted to get fit and in shape for a better life so I could be the ‘active Dad’ that I know I am. I weighed 12 stone and was often lethargic at work, particularly in the afternoon. Having a young family I knew I couldn’t continue to carry the weight if I wanted to be the ‘active Dad’ so I set myself a target weight of 10 stone, which is the middle of my BMI. I am now only 3lb off that weight and should reach it in the next few months.
CS: What bike did you get and why?
I already had a bike from a previous scheme so got accessories and safety clothes so I could be an all year commuter.
CS: How much did you spend with your Cyclescheme Certificate?
My Cyclescheme certificate cost came to £200.
CS: How often do you commute to work by bike?
I cycle five days a week, rain or shine as we only have one car.
CS: Where do you commute from and to?
Ingleby Barwick to Stockton Town Centre, it is about 5 miles each way and funnily enough the route was pretty much the National Road Championship TT route for 2016!
CS: How has cycling affected your daily life - do you feel healthier? Have you saved money?
Well, I have lost nearly two stone, I feel much healthier, happier and look more toned, almost as good as the day I got married! As a family we have certainly saved money as we now only need to run one car. Also my three year old son is getting the cycling bug from seeing me head off each day and asks me where Chris Froome is when the cycling is on the TV.
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