According to a Government report, about $2.4 billion a year goes on the direct costs of treating obese and overweight people. The indirect costs - lost work productivity, absenteeism and unemployment - are even higher at about $9 billion a year. 

These costs are going to keep rising because the percentage of people who are overweight or obese will rise; according to the International Obesity Taskforce, by 2025 one in every three adults will be obese if current trends continue.

Paul Gross, from the Institute of Health Economics and Technology Assessment argues that for every dollar invested by Government in encouraging people to be active and live healthier lifestyles, the government would save six dollars in improved productivity, reduced absenteeism and reduced drain on the health care dollar.

On a personal level exercise releases serotonin, dopamine and norepinephrine, which are the chemical brain lubricants responsible for psychological activities therefore it can facilitate everything from our concentration, and social relations to self-esteem and dealing with stress.  Being active increases blood flow around our brain and body which increases the effect of good nutrition. Exercise provides benefits on so many fronts, that making it a part of a daily routine is one of life's best investment.

Click here to view a fact sheet:    Health benefits of cycling

Click here to view a fact sheet:    Cyclists live longer and it is safet than people think