What if your daily commute became a moment of well-being? Active transportation, such as walking, biking, or using a scooter, is a simple, accessible, and effective way to move your body each day. More than just an eco-friendly habit, it’s one that benefits both your body and your mind.

1. Move without even thinking about it

Walking to work or biking to run errands naturally builds physical activity into your routine without having to carve out extra time for a workout. According to the World Health Organization, getting at least 150 minutes of moderate physical activity per week can significantly reduce the risk of chronic diseases.

By choosing active transportation, you boost your cardiovascular health, improve blood circulation, and start your day more alert, focused, and motivated!

2. Mental health benefits

Active transportation is a powerful ally in managing stress and anxiety. Moving your body releases endorphins, the “feel-good” hormones, while reducing the production of cortisol, the stress hormone. A study by the INSPQ found that physically active individuals are less likely to experience anxiety or depression.

And that’s not all: active transport also improves sleep quality and helps regulate your biological clock (circadian rhythm).

3. Preventing chronic diseases

Active transportation helps prevent a wide range of chronic conditions, including cardiovascular disease, type 2 diabetes, and some forms of cancer.

Data from Statistics Canada show that physical inactivity is a risk factor for more than 20 chronic diseases. Choosing to move actively is a smart and preventative step toward better overall health.

4. Less pain, more mobility

Spending hours seated each day can lead to discomfort and pain in the back, hips, and shoulders. Even short, regular bursts of movement help maintain muscle and joint flexibility.

Many of our clients have found that incorporating walking or cycling into their day helps relieve discomfort caused by prolonged sedentary posture.

5. A tangible step for the planet

Reducing car use also means reducing greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions. Did you know that transportation accounts for about 25% of GHG emissions in Québec?

For every 100 km walked or cycled instead of driven, about 18 kg of CO₂ are kept out of the atmosphere.

By choosing active transportation, we’re helping create a cleaner, healthier environment for ourselves, our families, and future generations.

How can you add active transportation to your day?

  • Park farther and walk the last kilometer
  • Use your bike for short errands (grocery store, pharmacy, etc.)
  • Combine public transit with walking to get to work
  • Organize an active commuting challenge at work (like we do at Ekinox! 😉)

Choosing active transportation is a way to care for yourself while also taking action for the planet. One step (or pedal) at a time, you’ll improve your quality of life, your mood, and your overall health.

Why not start today? The benefits will show up faster than you think!

Sources:

World Health Organization (2020). Physical Activity

INSPQ (2021). Physical Activity and Mental Health

Statistics Canada (2022). The Benefits of Physical Activity

Government of Québec (2023). Québec GHG Emissions Inventory

Love to ride. Calculations CO₂