Statewide Montana Commuter Challenge begins in May

From Bike Walk Montana

Spring is in the air, so it is the perfect time of year to invest in yourself and our beautiful state of Montana. Bike Walk Montana and PacificSource Health Plans are challenging you to take the active transportation plunge by ditching your car and having a blast bicycling, walking, or riding the bus to work for the month of May. Bicycling and walking to work is a fun and efficient way to get your exercise and it also cuts down on carbon emissions. A win for you and a win for Montana. Join the challenge today! For details visit http://www.mtcommuterchallenge.org

“We are excited to partner together again with PacificSource Health Plans on this fun event that encourages people to walk and bicycle to work,” said Melinda Barnes, Executive Director of Bike Walk Montana.

Here are some tips for bicycling and walking to work:

•Start slow and commit to just one or two times per week and build up from there.

• Know your route and how long it will take; pick roads with less traffic.

• Give yourself a little extra time to listen to the birds or to stop and chat with a friend.

• Find gear that works including comfortable footwear, rain gear, and a bag to carry your stuff in.

• Visit your local bike shop for a check-up.

• Wear a helmet to protect your head.

• Obey all stop signs, traffic lights, and lane markings.

• Be visible and predictable at all times.

“Remember, it’s okay to not actively commute every day or the entire distance.  The important part is to give it a try and not to immediately give up.  It may take time to get the hang of it and to truly appreciate it,” added Barnes.

Bike Walk Montana is a non-profit organization on a mission to make bicycling and walking safe and accessible for everyone in the state of Montana.