Active Commuting for Every Body

To Register please click here

On Wednesday, May 10, at noon in room 110 Chittenden Hall, a panel of four proud “regular people” will speak on what it takes to be an “active commuter.” These people often, if not exclusively, bike or walk to work and will share their thoughts: why they do it, why it is usually worth it, and how to overcome the challenges that sometimes discourage people.  

Julie Rojewski, who works as a program manager in the MSU Graduate School convened the panel, because, as she would be the first to tell you, she had a bit of a bee in her bonnet. “I have attended other talks on commuting and biking and being active, and I got to hear from some folks who are really dedicated cyclists, and are very well adapted to long commutes. They’re definitely impressive athletes—they ride long distances, and are really fit—but I don’t really identify with them,” even though she also walks or bikes to work (or sometimes takes the bus), year-round. “I suspect there are more people like me, who live within five or so miles of campus and could, at least in theory, try active ways of coming to campus.”

Rojewski notes that for some people walking or biking is really difficult: they live too far away or have physical limitations that make such movements difficult or painful, for example. But for many staff and faculty at MSU, it is possible…with a little creativity and planning. This panel was designed as an effort to help people think creatively about their planning and, perhaps, provide a little inspiration.

Rojewski said that panelists Senta Goertler, Nicole Springer, and Adam Zwickle all agreed to speak because they also see themselves as “regular people,” not necessarily health nuts or evangelists. Some walk, some bike, some do it in nice weather, and some do it year-round. “It does not have to be all or nothing,” said Rojewski. “And just because you decide to try riding to work one time on a beautiful day, doesn’t mean anyone is going to make you give up your parking pass.” It’s just worth trying, she added, for the positive health, economic, and environmental impacts. “Plus,” she added, “It’s fun.”

The panelists hope that the event appeals to a broad swath of the campus population. Panelists will spend time offering their insights and tell stories of their own commutes, but they are all hoping people will bring questions, too. Rojewski really sees this as an opportunity to bring together more people to see how to “make it work.” “Maybe it’s selfish,” she said, “But I would really just like to see more people out there walking and biking to work. It will make my commute that much more enjoyable, too!”  

by: Julie Rojewski