World Bicycle Day 2021: History, Significance and Benefits of Cycling
Unplanned development and emissions from factories and vehicles, not only have an adverse impact on the environment but also have ill effects on our personal health. When it comes to the environment, and our health we often forget the simplest things like a bicycle that could be beneficial not only for the environment but also for our health. June 3 has been marked as World Bicycle Day and the idea behind celebrating this day is to recognise the longevity, uniqueness and versatility of the bicycle. Here we will be sharing the history, significance and benefits of cycling.
History of World Bicycle Day
The United Nations General Assembly in the year 2018 declared June 3 as World Bicycle Day. The decision came after a vigorous campaign led by Prof. Leszek Sibilski and his sociology students to promote the United Nations (UN) resolution to designate a day that would celebrate and promote the use of the bicycle around the world. The campaign grew and was supported by Turkmenistan and 56 other nations.
The June 3 World Bicycle Day logo was designed by Isaac Feld. Along with this Prof. John E. Swanson designed an animation depicting bicyclists of various types riding around the globe. The animation sent across a strong message that, a bicycle is for all and it serves humanity. Prof. Leszek Sibilski and his team advocated bicycle as a sustainable means of transport not only because it is simple and affordable but also because it has numerous environmental and health benefits.
Significance of World Bicycle Day
The significance of World Bicycle Day is that it has been declared as a day to be enjoyed by all through riding bicycles. The idea behind this is to motivate and inspire people to switch to bicycles as they are a more sustainable means of transport. Not to mention the gamut of health benefits, both physical and psychological, that come with this simple recreational excercise.
World Bicycle Day 2021 Celebrations
Because of the ongoing Covid-19 pandemic urged people not to hold any public gatherings or rallies this year as well. Before the pandemic, however, the world joined hands to celebrate World Cycle Day with much zest and enthusiasm. Public rallies, cycling marathons, and other events were organised to spread awareness.
This year, the celebrations are restricted to social media. International and national organizations, politicians, leaders, Bollywood celebrities and other prominent personalities have taken to social media to spread awareness about cycling, its health and environmental benefits.
Health Benefits of Cycling
- Incorporating cycling for 15-30 mins in your daily health regime will help you get rid of the extra belly fat, lose weight and get in good shape.
- If you are suffering from insomnia and are unable to get proper sleep at night then you should certainly make it a habit to cycle every day for at least 15-30 mins. This enhances the oxygen flow in the body, lowers the stress level and helps to get proper sleep.
- It lowers the risk of heart diseases and attacks.
- It keeps the body and bones strong.
- It enhances your energy and stamina.
- It increases flexibility and muscle strength.
Interestingly, bicycles played a pivotal role in speeding up the flourishing of the Indian economy post-independence. Even after decades of independence, the cycle continued to be an essential medium of transportation and most of the families owned a cycle. The postal department too, dependent heavily on bicycles to deliver mails and parcels. Even today, postmen hop on bicycles to distribute letters and other postal documents in rural setups.