From May 30 – June 5, employees are encouraged to leave their car at home as part of the Commuter Challenge. The Commuter Challenge is a weeklong, national challenge between work places to motivate employees to think about their usual commute to work. Trying new modes of getting to and from work, other than driving alone, promotes sustainable transportation and reduced air pollution.

There are many options to take part in the Commuter Challenge. Try cycling, walking, inline skating, skateboarding, running, or other activities. Choosing active ways to commute has benefits including increased cardiovascular fitness; muscular strength and endurance; and reduced risk of chronic diseases such as diabetes and cancer. If you are working from home, you are helping the environment by skipping the commute all together, but you can still get active and participate in the Challenge. The fresh air can also be an excellent way to clear your mind before you start or end a long work day.

Commuter Challenge Sign-Up Instructions:

1. Go to https://commuterchallenge.ca/
2. Select “Employee” on the right hand side
3. Location: Fill in Ontario and Thunder Bay
4. Individual Details: scroll down to Thunder Bay Regional Health Sciences Centre. Do not register as a new workplace
5. Create a log in name and password you will remember
6. Log in every day and select the day, mode of transportation, and distance on the right to track your progress!
7. Check out other individuals and workplaces around town to see how you compare!