Biking is a good way to get some exercise, but it's also great for your mental health according to Wendy Conlon, a Genetic Counselor with the UCLA Health Bowyer Oncology Center.
Wendy commutes to campus from the Arts District, biking to the Metro Pico Station and then hopping on the E Line (Expo) before getting off and continuing by bike on Westwood Blvd. She gets 10-12 miles of biking in each day which helps her unwind.
"It takes a lot of stress off because I get some exercise before I come into work, and I get a little bit of exercise after I leave work," says Wendy, "so it’s relaxing and it helps with my mood."
Biking not only helps improve her own health, but the health of the community as well. As someone who is very passionate about climate change, she knows that more biking means less CO2 in the atmosphere.
"Tailpipe emissions account for at least 40% of greenhouse gasses in Los Angeles, so the more people we encourage to use active transportation improves all of our health," she explains.
What's Wendy's advice for anyone considering commuting to campus by bike?
"Combine riding your bike on a few days with taking your car. It’s really a great way to explore the city, get some exercise, clear your mind, and try something new."
