Electric Cycle Scheme
At Caythorpe and Ancaster Medical Practice, we are committed to initiatives that lead to our patients taking regular and appropriate exercise. It’s clear that there is a strong link between fitness and improved quality of life, and we encourage all of you to find an exercise regime that you are happy with and which suits your lifestyle.
This Practice does more that just voice support to this vital aspect of healthcare. Our ‘Guided Walks’ scheme is well established and now attracting groups of over 20 people for a weekly ramble. Please see Reception staff for more details of the walks programme. And in certain situations, your doctor can also provide a referral to a local gym if it is felt necessary.
Now we are delighted to announce a new project – the Practice is offering you the opportunity to borrow a state-of-the-art power-assisted Electric Bike as a step towards re-discovering the pleasures and benefits of regular cycling. This initiative is fully managed by the Practice and has been part-funded by the NHS and Lincolnshire County Council.
What are we trying to achieve?
Our objective is simple.......we want to encourage as many patients as possible to take regular exercise. Cycling happens to be one of the most effective exercise regimes available and, along with walking, one of the simplest to build into your normal lifestyle. If successful, we both benefit – you will almost certainly enjoy a better quality of life and, at the same time, our job of looking after you becomes easier.
Tell me about the scheme.
The Practice has purchased 12 Electric Bikes and is making them available on loan to any of our patients wanting to try one for a couple of weeks. There is no cost to you, although we would very much appreciate donations to fund the ongoing servicing, Insurance and maintenance. We deliver the bike to you, adjust it to fit and then collect it a fortnight later. The scheme also provides the loan of a helmet and reflective belt, while the bikes come complete with trip computer, carrier, stand, lock and battery charger (lights available on request). We also give you a local cycle map (courtesy of Lincolnshire County Council) which is yours to keep to plan your own adventures after the bike is returned. 10 of the bikes are “step-thru” unisex models, 2 have higher cross-bars suitable for men or more agile ladies. We also have a small number of approved child seats as well.
What do I have to do?
All we expect from you is that you look after the bike, and keep it safe and secure. And, of course, ride it as much as possible.
Why an electric bike?
Many of you, while relatively fit and healthy, may not have ridden a bike for years. Others may be recovering from illness and are unsure about how well you will cope with the physical demands of cycling. For people in both categories, it can be daunting to suddenly jump on a bike and re-discover the art of cycling while also worrying whether your legs will keep pedalling!! To inspire as many of you as possible, we therefore decided that an electric bike was the best way to build confidence without taking away the real pleasure. These bikes are classed as ‘assisted’......they are not electric mopeds! If you don’t pedal, they don’t go.
Why cycle?
There are many, many reasons ranging from boosting your health and fitness, saving money on unnecessary car journeys, lowering your environmental impact and helping to reduce congestion. By far the most powerful of these is in terms of the health benefits. The scientific evidence is compelling, and shows that regular cycling can be a major weapon in the war against obesity and significantly reduces the risk of developing major chronic diseases such as coronary heart disease, stroke and type 2 diabetes by up to 50%, and the risk of premature death by about 20- 30%.
But isn’t cycling dangerous?
Using common sense and reasonable precautions, cycling is no more dangerous than any other outside activity. It is, of course, a choice for you to make whether you want to ride a bike at all, however most experts agree that the significant health benefits far outweigh the statistically small risks. Many people regard helmets as important to safety, but it is equally vital to obey the Highway Code, wear bright and reflective clothing, practice first in an area free of traffic, and avoid sudden manoeuvres. The cycling map provided shows you the most suitable roads and also highlights which are best avoided. Again, common sense is the best way to stay safe and most of you will have ridden a bike at some point in your lives to appreciate this.
Can anyone borrow an electric bike?
Yes, although priority will be given to patients with chronic diseases or mental health problems and those who are overweight (maximum load for bikes is 17 and a half stone). If you usually have a flu jab or have a “body mass index” greater than 30 you are in the priority group. Most people are fit enough to ride an electric bike but if in doubt ask your GP during your next consultation.
How do I book one of the bikes?
It’s easy. Just contact the reception staff at Caythorpe Surgery (01400 272215) or who will book a bike for you at the next available date. As noted above, the loan period is two weeks and we will deliver the bike to your home and collect it at the end of your loan period. It may also be that your doctor offers the loan of a bike during a consultation if it is considered beneficial and appropriate.
What happens at the end of the loan period?
We can say what we hope will happen......that you will have been inspired by your new-found freedom and go to your garage or shed and get out that old conventional bike, or take a trip to a cycle shop and buy one. Please just remember to make sure it is properly serviced and is suitable for you. Then begin a regime of regular cycling along the beautiful lanes of Lincolnshire and Nottinghamshire.
Why is the Practice doing this?
Because we passionately believe that the right kind of exercise will bring enormous benefits to you, our patients.
I want to know more.....
Drop in to Caythorpe surgery and talk to the Reception Staff. They will be pleased to give you more information or book you two week’s loan.