As it is National Bike Week, an annual event encouraging daily cycling for everyone, we thought we would support this and give you ten reasons why you should start (or carry on) cycling.

Check them out now and after you're done, get on your bike!

1. IT'S SUITABLE FOR ALL FITNESS LEVELS

Feel unfit after a lazy winter? It doesn't matter what shape you are in, you can go at your own pace, so whether you're looking for some leisurely exercise or a way to push yourself to new extremes, cycling is perfect - there are challenges available for all abilities! It's amazing how quickly you will feel your fitness increase too.

Related: Top Biking Challenges

2. IT'S CHEAP

Think how much money you can save on not taking public transport or not driving - apart from the initial cost of the bike, cycling costs nothing! It's also quicker than getting stuck in the morning work traffic and there are no parking costs. What more could you want?

3. IT'S A SOCIABLE ACTIVITY

Want to go out for a ride on your own? No problem. But, if not, there are so many people that love cycling - join a Sunday morning group or just go for an explore with friends - you'll be amazed how far you can get in a short amount of time - even if it's just a ride out to a country pub for lunch! 

4. YOU'LL UP YOUR BRAIN POWER AND DE-STRESS (definitely a win-win)

Got writer's block? Stressed out with work? Jump on your bike! Research has shown exercise can considerably brighten your mood and get your creativity going again... so instead of trawling the internet for that spark of inspiration, it might just be two-wheels and an open road that sets that spark alight.

5. YOU + A BIKE = HELPING OTHERS

How about cycling in aid of a charity of your choice? You can get fit yourself and help others at the same time! A bespoke challenge group raised a massive £250,000 for Action Medical Research, on their cycling challenge from London to Paris, helping to save and change thousands of children's lives.

Related: The benefits of taking part in a fundraising challenge for charity

6. IMMERSE YOURSELF IN YOUR SURROUNDINGS

Roads travelled daily by car can be seen in a whole new light by bike. At a slower pace and being in direct contact with nature, means you'll notice so much more about your surroundings - from the breathing early morning air and the scent of freshly cut fields, to discovering new routes along little known paths. With your bike you’ll explore new trails and streets - the UK isn't quite on par with our neighbours in Holland, but there's plenty of cycle lanes out there, so choose one and take yourself on a mini adventure this weekend. 

7. NO TIME LIMIT = SENSE OF FREEDOM

Ask any keen cyclist - getting on their bike provides a form of escape and with that, an unbridled sense of freedom in open space. Cycling only requires you and your bike (and a tiny sprinkling of motivation) which means you can make it fit in with your schedule - cue no waiting for public transport or getting stuck in traffic! Just make sure you stay visible, and never go without a reflective jacket and light on your bike.