In the bustling streets of Britain, commuters are increasingly turning to bicycles as their preferred mode of transport. And it’s not just for the environmental benefits – cycling is scientifically proven to be far more energy-efficient than walking.
As Professor Anthony Blazevich of Edith Cowan University explains, the biomechanics of cycling make it up to four times more efficient than walking, and eight times more efficient than running. This efficiency stems from the compact, circular motion of the legs, which minimises the energy-draining effects of limb movement, ground impact, and muscle speed limitations.
Unlike walking, where each step involves a mini-collision with the ground, cycling’s rolling wheel action means no energy is lost to impact. And the gearing system allows cyclists to keep their muscles working in the optimal force-velocity range, rather than straining at high speeds like sprinters.
Of course, there are some scenarios where walking holds the advantage. On very steep hills over 15% gradient, the leg muscles struggle to generate enough force through the circular pedalling motion to power the bike uphill. But for the majority of commutes, cycling emerges as the clear winner in terms of sheer efficiency.
So next time you’re faced with a journey to work, consider swapping your feet for wheels. Your body will thank you for the reduced effort, and you may even arrive feeling more energised than if you’d trudged the pavement. Cycling is not just a mode of transport – it’s a masterfully engineered partnership between human and machine.
