[originaltext]Most of us know that the risk of getting ill is reduced when we l

Most of us know that the risk of getting ill is reduced when we look after ourselves. Taking regular exercise has proven to be good for our health. Scientists have found that the risk of getting cancer and heart disease is reduced when we take part in physical activity. Now they’ve found cycling to work is one of the best activities to do this. The five-year study of 250,000 UK commuters also showed walking had some benefits over sitting on public transport or taking the car.
Cycling to work is already popular in many cities across the world. Some forward-thinking authorities have built cycle lanes to make the commute safer, as well as providing secure places to lock them up. Some companies also provide facilities for their employees to get changed and cleaned up when they arrive at work. It all makes good sense. According to people surveyed in this study, regular cycling cut the risk of death from any cause by 41%, the incidence of cancer by 45% and heart disease by 46%.
For me, cycling to work is quicker and cheaper than using public transport and it’s my only form of exercise. And whereas going to the gym to lose a few pounds takes effort and commitment, cycling has just become part of the work routine.
But what exactly is it that is making cycling a much healthier option? The research found it wasn’t the result of weight loss. It could be that cyclists are leaner and have lower levels of pain in the body.
Questions 19 to 21 are based on the passage you have just heard.
19. What is one of the measures forward-thinking authorities have taken to promote cycling?
20. What is an advantage of cycling comparing to going to the gym?
21. What makes cycling a healthier choice?