Cycling to work thanks to the Bradford Leeds Cycle Superhighway: Meet Annika McDonald

The recently completed cycling and walking route between Seacroft and Leeds city centre (CS2) is the latest section of the award-winning Bradford Leeds Cycle Superhighway to be completed.

The cycle superhighway, which connects two of Yorkshire’s biggest cities via a cycling and walking route protected from traffic, is the longest continuous route of its kind in the UK.

Since opening in 2016 it has been helping make cycling and walking a viable option for all residents, regardless of age or ability.

We caught up with Whinmoor resident Annika McDonald to hear how this new section of route has made her a cycle to work convert.

I live at Whinmoor so I start at the top of the route in Seacroft and ride it all the way into the city centre.

I started cycling to work just four weeks ago, having bought a bike second hand from my boyfriend’s sister.

Before that I hadn’t cycled since I was a kid so as you can imagine I was very nervous about taking to the road.

I was determined to cycle to work and at first I wasn’t sure I would enjoy it, but the route makes me feel safe and it has given me all the confidence I need to enjoy my 12-mile round trip every day.

I’m really grateful to live so near to the route, which has made the whole experience so easy.

In four short weeks I’ve already noticed a difference. I’ve lost weight and toned up. I feel stronger, fitter and healthier than ever before, I’m saving money and doing my bit for the environment.

I’m also saving time. It used to take up to an hour and a half each way on the bus and now I can get to work in 40 minutes.

I feel more refreshed when I get to my desk in the morning and knowing I have done six miles of cycling before 8am in the morning is a great feeling.

It’s all made a massive difference to my life and it’s opened up my eyes cycling’s potential.

Annika’s advice to others?
Go for it – that’s what I did. I just thought I’ll try it for a few days and see how I get on, and I just loved it.

Making the decision to cycle to work is one of the best things I have done.

It’s been great for my mental health, as well as my physical health.

Every day I feel like I have accomplished something and it’s a great way to clear my mind and shake off the stresses of the day.