Car workers 'top for excercise'

CAR WORKERS and mechanics are the most physically active staff, taking regular exercise more than three times a week, according to a new study.

Employees in leisure and tourism were ranked second. A survey of 2,000 workers by the British Heart Foundation (BHF) to mark its cycling campaign, found that mechanics did some form of physical exercise more than four times a week.

Bankers were also in the top 10, as well as nurses, teachers, plumbers and hairdressers.

The main reasons for taking regular exercise were improving physical fitness, having a healthier lifestyle and losing weight.

Doctors, dentists and bankers were most likely to cycle, with nine out of 10 saying they spend some time pedalling each week.

The main reasons stopping people cycling to work were distance from offices, or the dangers of cycling, although many cited a lack of showers at their workplace.

Martin Mears, events manager at the BHF, said: "Our survey shows that, while professionals enjoy cycling, it is not always practical, but we don't want this to discourage them. Cycling is a fantastic way to have fun and improve your heart health and can be done in the evenings and at the weekends."

Stewart Kellett, of British Cycling, said: "It is wonderful to see that professionals are welcoming cycling as a form of exercise, but work commitments can often mean that it is not possible to cycle to work, or some people may not feel confident to get on their bike.

"This survey demonstrates that while cycling is a popular activity that people across all professions clearly enjoy, perceived safety fears and a lack of proper changing facilities are putting workers off."

The BHF organises around 25 bike rides throughout the UK, sponsored by Santander.

By Alan Jones, Press Association Industrial Correspondent