New research suggests that our feeling of ‘wellbeing’ is improved simply by switching from driving a car to walking or cycling to work. Those commuters who have active showed increased levels of concentration and showed lower levels of strain than those travelling by car. The data gathered from over 18,000 commuters over a span of ten years even suggested that travelling by public transport was preferable to driving.

The research showed that people should be encouraged to leave their cars at home as it could have a big impact on their wellbeing. Other research has shown the physical benefits of exercise and this study, undertaken by the Norwich Medical School and the Centre for Health Economics at the University of York, also showed the same results as well as these psychological benefits too.

Out of the large study group, 73% said they went to work by car, 13% walked and 3% cycled, with the remaining 11% using public transport. Those who had an active commute were found to have a higher level of wellbeing than those who went by car or public transport.

This was examined further and a they went on to analyse the wellbeing of a small group who exchanged travelling by car or bus for a bike or going on foot, they found they became happier after the switch. The study examined elements such as feelings of worthlessness, unhappiness, sleepless nights, and being unable to face problems. The study even allowed for other known factors which can affect wellbeing, such as income, having children, moving house or job, and relationship changes.

The study showed that the longer people spend commuting in cars, the worse their psychological wellbeing, and no surprise that people feel better when they have a longer walk to work. It was surprising when the research showed that commuters felt better when travelling by public transport, compared with driving, especially when you think of the factors that can affect this type of travel such as disruption to services or crowds of commuters which can be quite stressful. However those travelling by train, tram, or bus found it also gave people time to relax, read, socialise, and there is usually an associated walk to the bus stop or railway station, which appears to cheer people up."

So why not change the way you travel to work, get some extra steps in every day and improve both your health and wellbeing, and because you are going to send that extra time outdoors why not make sure you are ready for the British weather and get hold of a waterproof jacket such as the Regatta All Peaks, built to stand up to the weather and not too hard on the pocket, ideal for everyone.