Walking vs. biking on campus: Biking
Liberty’s campus is rather large. Compared to some other campuses around the country, it might not seem that way, but for the average student, the long stretches and seemingly only uphill climbs can be tough. Some like the challenge of walking, others prefer to take the bus, but the best way to get around campus is to ride a bike.
Before continuing, I will note that I have never personally ridden a bike on campus. This does not, however, prevent me from seeing the numerous benefits that these vehicles provide. No matter if you live in Commons, on the Hill or all the way on East Campus, biking across Liberty’s campus is undoubtedly the greatest way to navigate the grounds of the school.
The main reason biking is the best way to get around is the health benefits. According to the Harvard School of Public Health, there are many benefits to riding a bicycle.
First, biking can help reduce the risk of cardiovascular disease, with studies showing that going from not biking to biking regularly can decrease the risk of an illness of the heart by as much as 26%. Cycling can also help you stay fit and improve your mental health. Regular cycling can decrease your mortality rate, with some studies mentioned by Harvard School of Public Health suggesting you can lower your risk of early death by 35%.
What about at Liberty specifically? Many people on campus opt to take the bus, which is often a good option, but not your best option. Sometimes the bus is late. Sometimes it is really crowded. Also, taking the bus eliminates the opportunity for exercise to be had when riding a bike. Why take these chances when you can just hop on a bike? If you want to be on time for classes, Convo or work, making your own routes on a bike far outweighs being tied to the schedule of a bus.
Skateboards and longboards may seem like a good option, but how many times have you seen someone start down a hill uncontrollably and plow into the sidewalk, a crowd of people, or both? I can attest from personal experience, falling off a longboard is not fun, and it does not feel good at all. Plus, trying to carry a board around and find a spot to put it can be tricky. With a bike, you just need a rack or a pole and a lock and you’re good to go.
What about scooters? The Bird scooters around campus can quickly rack up in price and buying a personal scooter can be out of the price range of the average college student. Bicycles, on the other hand, are very affordable, with a decent bike costing only around $100 on Amazon. Walking? Sure, walking is good for you, but it doesn’t get the blood pumping quite the way that biking does.
Truthfully, how someone decides to get around campus is ultimately up to them and their preferences. That being said, there is no denying the clear benefits of riding a bicycle to get around. It is safe, convenient and very healthy. There are a lot of clear reasons why one should seriously consider getting a bike. Who knows? It could even become a fun new hobby.
Hughes is an opinion writer for the Liberty Champion. Follow him on X