How to Celebrate 'International Car Free Day' in Westminster

According to the U.S. Department of Transportation, the average American bikes or walks for an estimated 20 minutes for exercise and 14 minutes for other purposes every day.

Walkinginfo.org summarizes how an increase of walking and biking can substantially improve:

• The health of the environment
• The health of individuals
• Quality of life
• A reduction in traffic congestion
• Economic benefits from reduced health care costs

Studies described in a report by the Rails to Trails Conservancy show that modest increases in bicycling and walking in all America’s cities could lead to an annual reduction of 70 billion miles of automobile travel. 

Reports listed on bikesbelong.org describe the benefits of biking and overall improved activity to include the following:

• Bike commuters report lower stress and greater feelings of freedom, relaxation, and excitement than car commuters. (read study) 
• Countries with the highest levels of cycling and walking generally have the lowest obesity rates.
• Active commuting that incorporates cycling and walking is associated with an overall 11% reduction in cardiovascular risk. (read study)

According to studies and research by the United States Department of Health and Human Services, moderate activities such as walking and biking have been linked to:

• Better brain coordination
• Maintaining bone strength 
• Improved cholesterol levels
• Improved blood pressure levels
• Significant calorie burn and weight loss
• Longer life span  

There are also prevention benefits linked with the increased activity of walking and biking.  As stated by resources on pub.med.gov, women who walk or bike 30 minutes a day have a lower risk of breast cancer.

Want to do your part in promoting Car Free Day? Tie on a pair of good walking shoes or visit the following bike shops to check out the latest inventory:

Race Pace Bicycles

(410) 876-3001
459 Baltimore Blvd.
Westminster, MD 21157

(410) 848-3440
10 W Main St.
Westminster, MD 21157