An additional 220,000 people cycling on a weekly basis
Sport Ireland research has found the number of Irish people partaking in individual sports, such as cycling, has increased significantly when compared to the same time last year. Despite the challenges imposed by Covid-19 restrictions, which have included a 2-kilometer exercise limit, the number of people cycling regularly is estimated to have increased by 220,000.
The increase in individual sport and recreational activities has led to a welcome reduction in the percentage of inactive adults, with a drop of 8% from the same period in 2019. Cycling Ireland is working with clubs and stakeholders around the country to grow the sport and develop an island enhanced by cycling.
Cycling Ireland CEO, Matt McKerrow added:
“It’s welcome news in these difficult
times to see so many extra individuals taking the opportunity to get out on
their bikes – providing considerable benefits in terms of the physical and
mental wellbeing of these people in this challenging period.”
“We also welcome the recent statement
from John Treacy with An Taoiseach Leo Varadkar suggesting individual sports,
such as cycling, would likely be among the first to “return to play” - we
patiently await confirmation of government guidelines in this space and look
forward to playing our part in keeping the community active, healthy and
improving their way of life as the Covid-19 response and recovery continues.“
Cycling Ireland has seen significant
demand for programmes developed to support members of the cycling community,
including an indoor virtual cycling league and learn to cycle resources. Anecdotal
evidence also suggests many essential workers are opting to commute by bike to maintain
adequate social distancing, a trend which can help to reduce traffic congestion
and positively impact the health of the nation.
Read the full Sport Ireland Report here