In Greater Manchester alone, inactivity-related illness is costing the NHS £500,000 a week. In fact, there are 250 million car journeys every year in Manchester that are less than one kilometre. And it’s not just Greater Manchester, the situation is the same across the UK. I delve into the reasons behind this with former Olympic gold medallist, Chris Boardman in this week’s episode.

Chris, who is now cycling and walking commissioner for Greater Manchester, has a refreshing approach to empowering people to be the architects of their own health. He believes enabling people is key and explains how he is using this approach to build a high-quality, safe, dedicated cycling network across Greater Manchester. We also discuss how we can all build movement into our everyday lives and where to get started. Chris’s mission is really inspiring, I hope you enjoy hearing about it!

Episode Highlights:

• Why does Chris think that we should move more?
• What tips does Chris offer to help us include more movement in our daily lives?
• How did Chris become an Olympic gold medallist?
• What is Chris’s role now at Transport for Greater Manchester?
• What research has Chris and his team performed around Manchester to look to improve the walk and cycleways?
• How has Chris taken inspiration from other countries with successful cycle networks?
• What are the important factors in creating a cycle network?
• Hear how Chris thinks that making walking or cycling the easiest option for everyone is the best way to change habits.
• What initiatives has Chris seen are a great way to change habits?
• How can involving your local residential or work community make a difference?
• What are Chris’s views on cycle helmets and clothes while cycling?
• What are Chris’s hopes for Greater Manchester’s transport system in the future?
• Hear how the success of British competitive cycling has had an impact on organised cycling events across the country but not on everyday commuter cycling.
• What are the cost and health benefits of improving walking and cycle networks?
• What are Chris’s top tips?

Further learning:

• The Daily Mile
• Parkrun
• The Guardian – Boardman shows path to break cycle of Manchester’s car commuter hell
• Manchester Evening News – This is how a Salford Quays junction could look if a cycling plan goes ahead – and it includes more space for cars
• The Guardian – Manchester makes a Beeline for new Dutch-style cycling network
• The Independent – Chris Boardman says Manchester will overtake London for cycling as masterplan is launched