Use Active Forms of Transportation

Active Transportation describes all human-powered forms of travel, such as walking, cycling, in-line skating, skateboarding, skiing, canoeing, and yes, even tubing. Check out these links for inspiration and then follow our eight tips for making your active commute safe and fun.  

• Since 2012, Indianapolis commuters have grabbed their paddles and canoed to work! 
• Tube to Work Day in Boulder, Colorado, has attracted more than 1,000 people each summer to jump into the Boulder Creek to get to work! 
• In Wellesley, Massachusetts, residents ditched traffic jams and Nordic skied to work instead! 

Here are eight ideas on how to make your active commute a positive experience for everyone:

1. Stay Hydrated:  Always carry a water bottle. 
2. Happy Feet: Wear comfortable shoes, sneakers, or walking shoes (or ski boats) and keep a pair of office shoes at work to change. 
3. Safety First: Wear a helmet when riding your bike and use front and rear lights as well as reflective clothing (especially when commuting home in the dark).
4. Office Clothes: It is a good idea to keep a spare set of clothing, toiletries, baby wipes, and deodorant at your workstation for a quick clean-up. 
5. Shower Power: If you plan on sweating, see if your office has shower facilities. If not, check and see if a local gym could give you access to a shower at a reduced rate.
6. One Way Ride: If you are not used to active transportation, perhaps mix active transportation with carpooling or taking the bus. Run, walk or bike one direction, and then take an alternative method home (or vice versa).
7. Plan Your Route: And remember, plan ahead so that you don’t get lost. Perhaps try your route on a weekend to make sure you know it is safe and accessible. 

Regardless of the type of active transportation you chose, you are on your way to a healthier planet and lifestyle! Share how you commute through the Report Action link below.