Cycling to work linked to fewer sick days, finds Finnish study

Cycling to work can significantly reduce the likelihood of illness-related absences. A study conducted by the Finnish Institute of Occupational Health, which monitored over 28 000 public employees over two years, found that those who cycle to work are up to 12 % less likely to be absent due to illness. This figure rises to 18 % for health problems requiring at least 10 days of absence.

The study highlighted that cycling 61 kilometres or more per week is associated with a lower risk of illness. On average, daily cyclists have 4.5 fewer sick days per year than their colleagues who drive. In some cities, cycling to work is common even in winter. For example, in Oulu, Finland, people cycle even on ice. 

"There is already research evidence on the health and environmental benefits of active commuting, but its connection to the risk of long sickness absences, for example, has not been studied at all before," says Essi Kalliolahti, a public health scientist from the Finnish Institute of Occupational Health.

With only half of the Finish adult population engaging in physical activity in line with recommendations, commuting by foot or bicycle presents a valuable opportunity to boost physical activity and improve public health.

Author: Carla Giaume

Views and opinions expressed are those of the author(s) and do not reflect those of the European Commission.