Our work-life balance often tips in favor of work, so it helps to have a ritual that sets the tone for the rest of your day. Join Ibai Fradejas on his commute across Bilbao – with a quick guide to gaining those endorphins.
Bilbao is a city of great beauty, from its delicious culinary culture to the Basque history the romantic metropolis is drenched in. For me, Bilbao is perfect for a gravel commute – cycling through the busy streets in grand style.
Cycling to work is a great way to energize your day. How much of a boost would a little adventure add to your commute? Get set to unwind, feeling the fresh breeze on your face after a hard day's work.
It’s a zero-emissions, all-Strava lifestyle I’m promoting. A way to find satisfaction in owning your time getting micro workouts throughout your day.
I live about 8 kilometers from the office. By car, it takes me approximately 15 minutes to get there — not to mention the time it takes to find a place to park my car. It’s 15 minutes by public transport, regardless of whether I choose the bus or the subway – subtracting the waiting time. By bike, I can get there in 15 minutes without breaking a sweat if I stick to the most direct route.
Make your commute about the journey
Instead of tearing up the tarmac in 15 minutes, I prefer to vary the commute, trying new options and even throwing in some adventure — especially on the way home.
Experience has taught me that adventure is the best way to clear any residual stress from my mind. Each time I commute by bike, I arrive at the office with fresh ideas, feeling recharged and eager to launch myself into the day. And heading home just gives me another restart and a new lease on the day.
Bilbao is tucked safely between green mountains, marked with trenches that once protected the city during the civil war. The contours in the landscape create opportunities to discover new tracks or paths during my commute.
From racing the funicular railway to a sweet slow ride home, it’s all about enjoying the time on the bike and discovering new things about a city you think you know so well.
However, I must warn you that there may be mud you’ll carry with you throughout your day, along with broad, joyful smiles.
About Ibai
When not on his bike, Ibai Fradejas will be found in his production company’s office in Bilbao. Happiest when going fast, he admits that making it to the office for 9am is sometimes a stretch.
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