CYCLING is perceived to be exceptionally dangerous, say local group Push Bike. It's the single biggest factor stopping people from getting on their bikes. The reality? The risks are a lot less than you think. Here are a few facts.

• On average, one cyclist is killed per 27.7 million miles cycled (more than 1,000 times around the world).

• Per mile travelled on our roads, you’re as likely to be killed walking.

• The general risk of injury is 0.05 injuries per 1,000 hours of cycling.

• Per hour of activity, you’re more likely to be injured playing tennis or gardening.

There’s also lots of ways to further reduce your personal risk. A lot of injuries can be avoided altogether by having a decent, well-maintained bike that stops effectively.

Choosing safer routes, adopting a better road position, regulating your speed to road conditions and generally improving your cycle skills can significantly reduce your chances of injury.

Worcester News:

As cycling increases, motorists get more used to sharing the road safely

Just by starting to cycle you’ll be helping reducing average risks. There’s a ‘safety in numbers’ effect. As cycling increases, motorists get more used to sharing the road safely. They’re also more likely to cycle themselves and understand the needs of cyclists.

Importantly, cycling helps keep you fit. Its one of the least time-consuming, most cost-effective and pleasurable ways of ensuring you get the recommended minimum of 30 minutes of exercise five times a week to stay healthy.

Read more: Make best use of shared cycleways in Worcester

• Adults who cycle regularly have a fitness level equivalent to someone 10 years younger.

• Their average life expectancy is two years longer.

• Together with a healthy diet, its a great way to help control your weight.

• Cycling helps reduce stress and improve mental health.

• It reduces the risk of developing coronary heart disease, strokes, type II diabetes and cancer.

One research study suggested the health benefits of cycling outweigh the risks by around 20 to one.

So there you have it. Not cycling is more dangerous to your health than cycling.

As one of the best ways to get fit and stay healthy enough to fight off Covid-19, but also safely socially distance as you travel around the city it therefore makes a lot of sense to leave the car at home, avoid public transport and use pedal power for more of your shorter journeys.

That way you’ll be doing your bit to support the NHS in helping to stop or cope with the pandemic if we do get a second wave.