Задание №22616 ЕГЭ по Английскому языку

Commute by bicycle

In larger urban centers, walking and public transportation garner a significant portion of total commutes, while cycling continues to lag behind. Car commuting remains the overwhelming preference, accounting for over three-quarters of all trips, even in major metropolitan areas with lengthy commute times.

As an avid cyclist and advocate for environmentally friendly and cost-effective transportation alternatives, I find these statistics disheartening. However, I also acknowledge the realities of the situation. Due to low population density and dispersed job locations in the suburban periphery of major cities, commuting by bike simply isn't a viable option for millions of workers. Nevertheless, it remains a feasible choice for a substantial number of individuals.

For many individuals who transition to bike commuting, health is a significant motivating factor. Even if you ride at a leisurely pace, you still engage in more physical activity compared to sitting behind the wheel of a car. An individual weighing 80 kg, cycling at approximately 24 km per hour—a brisk yet not overly aggressive speed—burns over 400 calories in a 30-minute ride. For someone of the same weight, maintaining a more leisurely pace of 18 km per hour burns 245 calories in the same timeframe. In contrast, according to a Harvard study, an 84-kg person burns approximately 45 calories during 30 minutes of driving.

Office work is even less demanding in terms of energy expenditure. According to the same Harvard study, sitting at a desk or in meetings burns approximately 70 calories per hour. Interestingly, individuals with higher body weight tend to burn calories at a faster rate, resulting in greater caloric benefits.

You may have heard the phrase "sitting is the new smoking." While the health implications of prolonged sitting are still a subject of debate, few experts argue that it is beneficial for overall well-being. Studies have linked extended periods of sitting, such as those typically experienced during a workday, to an increased risk of certain cancers, blood clots, obesity, cardiovascular disease, and other conditions. If you, being an office drone, find yourself confined to an office environment, incorporating cycling into your daily commute can significantly reduce your overall sitting time.

It is important to note that biking to and from work alone does not provide a complete solution. Research suggests that exercise alone may not entirely counteract the adverse health effects of prolonged sitting. To mitigate the impact of extended sitting, it is recommended to periodically stand up (spending five minutes standing for every half-hour of sitting may be beneficial) or consider investing in a standing desk.

If you plan to commute regularly by bike, specific equipment and clothing can enhance your experience, making it more comfortable and enjoyable. Depending on your current cycling habits, you may already possess some of these items. In many cases, the bicycle itself represents the most substantial investment. Even if helmets are not legally required in your area, wearing one is crucial for your safety. Location plays a significant role, as individuals residing in regions with wet, four-season climates require more equipment and clothing compared to those in drier, milder areas.

Cycling is no longer solely the domain of children. For a growing number of workers, it presents a viable alternative to driving or utilizing public transportation for their daily commute. Of course, it may not be suitable for everyone. Individuals residing in remote exurban or rural areas may have no choice but to rely on driving, unless they possess the option to work remotely. However, in densely populated areas, commuting by bike may be easier and more cost-effective than you might expect. With a few adjustments to your schedule, you could soon exchange the stressful cacophony of car horns and engines for the invigorating rush of the wind in your hair.