Working in a full-time position that you enjoy is rewarding. We find jobs that fit us well and we become comfortable with that way of life. But in many cases these positions we put ourselves in (no matter how much we love them) are not going to allot much time for outside activities.
While there is no outstanding quick fix for this daily occurrence, there are ways we can incorporate activity into our workdays. People in sedentary jobs should make time get up and walk and stretch as frequently as possible throughout the day and in addition to that they can bookend the workday with built-in exercise. If you are a local resident or just feel inspired to try something new, why not try going the distance and riding your bike to work?
Bicycling to work is rewarding on many levels. It wakes you up, helps you feel accomplished even prior to digging into your daily workload, reduces pollution and, over time, becomes easier and more enjoyable. In addition to the added benefit of incorporating cardio activity into our otherwise stagnant days, Loma Linda University Health employees are encouraged to participate in this means of transportation through a program called “Rideshare.”
According to Rideshare regulations, “Any Rideshare Member that rides their bicycle to and from work is eligible for a $60 dollar a quarter bonus. The bonus will be added to the employee’s paycheck if all requirements of membership are completed.”
If you are interested in Rideshare, here are a few qualifications:
- Employees must start workday between 6 a.m. and 10 a.m. or work a qualifying shift that is defined by Federal Regulation as any employee that is scheduled to work an established shift recognized by the employer.
- Employees assigned to 8, 8.5, 9 or 10-hour shifts must ride a minimum of three workdays per week.
- Only one qualifying day may be either a Saturday or Sunday.
- Employees assigned to a 12-hour shift must ride a bike a minimum of two workdays per week.
Why not try something new and participate in this program? When you think of all the benefits to yourself and the environment, it just makes sense. To start your bicycling adventure off right, please take the “Cycling Quiz” from the LLU Medical Center health library to gear up on your biking knowledge.
And be safe on the streets. Learn more about bicycle rules and safety from the California Department of Motor Vehicles.