Research
Getting Physically Active by E-Bike: An Active Commuting Intervention Study
Authors:
- Thomas MildestvedtEmail Thomas Mildestvedt
- Olav Hovland
- Sveinung Berntsen
- Elling Bere
- Liv Fegran
Abstract
Introduction: Increased physical activity (PA) is a major component in promoting public health, and active commuting could make an important contribution. Using an electric bicycle (e-bike) is reported to be of at least moderate intensity PA and is an alternative to other modes of transport for commuting. We aimed to explore the experience of commuting by e-bike in an intervention study.
Methods: Focus group interviews with 21 previously inactive participants from three cities in Norway, who were given access to an e-bike for commuting for three (N = 2) or eight months (N = 19). Participants cycled for 226 days on average. The interviews were analyzed using systematic text condensation.
Results: The use of e-bikes and active commuting stimulated some participants to take on additional PA in their leisure time. Others preferred active commuting to be their daily PA. Participants’ experiences of commuting by e-bike were characterized by a motivational shift from external reasons for e-biking, such as pressure to get fit, to feelings of well-being, enjoyment and recognition of the health benefits.
Conclusion: Commuting by e-bike was convenient and promoted good health. Promoting e-bikes could lead to long term changes among inactive people because positive experiences stimulate autonomous reasons for active commuting.
- Year: 2020
- Volume: 4 Issue: 1
- Page/Article: 120–129
- DOI: 10.5334/paah.63
- Submitted on 28 Aug 2020
- Accepted on 25 Sep 2020
- Published on 19 Oct 2020
- Peer Reviewed