In Cyprus, only 0.1 percent of people engage in the recommended 30 minutes of moderate physical activity daily, with a cultural reliance on automobiles hindering the popularity of cycling and walking. Despite efforts to promote active transport, a significant shift in mindset is needed to embrace the health and environmental benefits of these activities.
Why is cycling and walking not popular in Cyprus?
In Cyprus, cycling and walking are not popular due to a cultural and infrastructural reliance on automobiles for short trips. Only 0.1 percent of Cypriots engage in the recommended 30 minutes of moderate physical activity daily. Efforts to encourage active transport exist, but a significant cultural shift is needed to embrace the health and environmental benefits of walking and cycling.
The Underwhelming Embrace of World Bicycle Day
June 3 represents a global celebration of cycling, known as World Bicycle Day, a day designated by the United Nations General Assembly to advocate for the benefits of riding a bike. The initiative, which started in 2018, emphasizes cycling as a means of promoting health, sustainability, and environmental stewardship. However, in Cyprus, this day seems to have passed without much fanfare. This lack of celebration could be symptomatic of a deeper issue: the island’s reliance on automobiles for even the shortest trips, a stark contrast to places where cycling is a way of life.
The benefits of cycling and walking are numerous, including improving cardiovascular fitness and reducing the risk of chronic diseases such as diabetes and obesity. Health experts around the world advise at least 30 minutes of moderate physical activity daily, such as a brisk walk or a bike ride. Nonetheless, the Cypriot population appears to be largely sedentary, with a mere 0.1 percent engaging in such activities for the recommended duration each day.
Cycling: A Dutch Paradigm
In contrast to Cyprus, the Netherlands exemplifies a culture deeply intertwined with bicycles. The Dutch Prime Minister, Mark Rutte, himself sets a precedent by cycling to work, weather permitting. Rutte’s choice reflects a broader societal preference to avoid the pitfalls of car travel, such as traffic congestion and pollution. This mindset is underpinned by a rich cycling history in the Netherlands dating back to the late 19th century.
The Netherlands is almost a cyclist’s utopia, boasting more bicycles than people – a staggering 24 million bicycles for around 18 million inhabitants. Furthermore, a significant slice of Dutch journeys, over 25 percent, are made on two wheels, with a sizable portion of these being commutes to work. Such widespread cycling is believed to contribute to the Dutch gaining an additional six months of life expectancy.
Health Implications in Cyprus
The correlation between physical activity levels and health outcomes is clearly visible when examining the statistics across Europe. In Cyprus, where walking and cycling are minimal, stress levels are notably high, with over half of the population reporting significant daily stress. This is second only to Greece within the EU. Conversely, in the Netherlands, where active commuting is the norm, the stress prevalence is reduced to 29 percent.
Moreover, there is an inverse relationship between the prevalence of cycling and walking and the rates of obesity. Countries with higher rates of these activities tend to report lower obesity levels. The health benefits of active transportation are not just physical but also mental, with improvements in mood and reductions in stress levels.
Initiatives and Prospects for Improvement in Cyprus
Efforts have been made in Cyprus to encourage cycling, including some initiatives funded by the European Union. Despite these efforts, the low percentage of the population engaging in walking and cycling activities indicates that a substantial cultural and infrastructural shift is necessary. The World Health Organization (WHO) actively promotes cycling and walking, providing resources to enhance road safety and public health.
As Cyprus looks to the future, it will be crucial to consider the health and environmental benefits of adopting a more active transportation culture. With proper support and development, there is potential for a significant positive impact on the well-being of the Cypriot community.
Dr. Charles Ellinas, a Senior Fellow with a wealth of experience in the energy sector, advocates for awareness and change. His insights into the state of physical activity in Cyprus highlight the need for more robust measures to promote a healthier, more sustainable lifestyle for all Cypriots.
Why is cycling and walking not popular in Cyprus?
In Cyprus, cycling and walking are not popular due to a cultural and infrastructural reliance on automobiles for short trips. Only 0.1 percent of Cypriots engage in the recommended 30 minutes of moderate physical activity daily. Efforts to encourage active transport exist, but a significant cultural shift is needed to embrace the health and environmental benefits of walking and cycling.
Why is World Bicycle Day not widely celebrated in Cyprus?
World Bicycle Day, celebrated on June 3 globally, advocates for the benefits of cycling. In Cyprus, this day may not be widely celebrated due to the prevalent culture of relying on cars for transportation, even for short trips. The lack of celebration could be indicative of the island’s overall stance on cycling and walking as primary modes of transport.
How does the cycling culture in the Netherlands differ from that in Cyprus?
The Netherlands exemplifies a culture deeply intertwined with bicycles, with Dutch Prime Minister Mark Rutte setting an example by cycling to work when weather permits. The Netherlands boasts more bicycles than people and a significant portion of journeys are made on two wheels. This stark contrast to Cyprus highlights the impact of a society where cycling is a common mode of transportation.
What are the health implications of low cycling and walking rates in Cyprus?
In Cyprus, where cycling and walking rates are low, stress levels are notably high, with over half of the population reporting significant daily stress. High levels of stress are linked to various health issues. Conversely, countries with higher rates of cycling and walking tend to have lower obesity levels and improved mental well-being.
