Win £10 by inspiring others to switch to healthier and greener travel habits
The Choose How You Move challenge allows everyone who lives, works or studies in Warwick District to earn BetterPoints and win prizes for walking, cycling and using public transport. One such prize is the 'Ditch the Car Star'. Ross was chosen as our latest winner and received 10,000 BetterPoints (£10) for sharing his story. For your chance to win £10, download the app via the buttons or QR code at the bottom of the page!
Ross used to think cycling the 9-mile commute to the University of Warwick campus wasn’t feasible. 3 months later, with the help of the Choose How You Move challenge, he is travelling in on his bike for almost the entire working week. Here is what he had to say:
Before joining the Choose How You Move Warwick challenge, what were your travel habits like?
“I used to drive to work every day. There is a bus that can take me to the campus, but it takes a really long time and when it is busy with other passengers it can be tough going.
Driving was certainly not pain free either because the traffic could be bad, but it felt like the lesser of two evils.
Gradually though I started to grow more and more frustrated that I wasn’t finding the time to go to the gym and get my exercise in. So I decided to give cycling go. I thought that if it works out I will get the exercise I need whilst saving some money too.
Around the same time I was introduced to the app by my partner. It has definitely helped me over the last 3 months to progress to where I am today.”
How has the app helped you to travel more actively and sustainably? What features do you enjoy?
“The points have been the main motivation. The opportunity to earn discount vouchers is spurring me on.
Being able to see the number of journeys and hours I’ve done is really nice and gives that sense of achievement. Whilst I could do the maths myself, the app conveniently presents it all for me.”
How have your travel habits changed?
“I started cycling the 40-minute journey to work once a week. It was difficult at first but step by step I have built up my strength and stamina to the point now where I cycle in 4 days a week. 5 days a week will happen soon enough I’m sure.
I’ve got myself some good mud guards and bike lights so the wet and dark conditions at the moment aren't putting me off.
Another change I’ve made has been walking to the shops every week instead of using the car.”
What benefits have you noticed as a result?
“A combination of not paying for parking, petrol and a gym membership, means I am saving close to £100 a month.
It’s also been great for my wellbeing. Exercising outside every day gives me a really nice buzz, particularly the last few days when the mornings have been extremely beautiful. It’s far better than getting infuriated as you sit in traffic.”
Not yet earning rewards for walking, wheeling, cycling and taking public transport? To join Choose How You Move Warwick District simply download the free BetterPoints app via the buttons or QR below and tap Challenges to get started.
