A survey commissioned by BikeRadar, together with charity partner CALM (Campaign Against Living Miserably), has revealed that 87 per cent of cyclists have used riding to boost their mental health during the coronavirus lockdown.

Over a third of those polled (35 per cent) admitted to struggling with mental health issues since lockdown began, with 38 per cent saying their mental health has deteriorated overall.

However, nearly nine in ten of respondents to our survey agreed that cycling has a positive impact on their mental health, with most heading out on to open roads, tracks and trails to boost their mood.

On top of that, 91 per cent of BikeRadar users would recommend cycling to friends and family as a way to improve or manage mental health.

The cyclists polled are also taking positive steps in addressing mental health worries with more than 60 per cent confiding in friends and family about their mental health and 27 per cent seeking help from a GP or a health practitioner.

The survey has also shown that some cycling habits have already changed, with almost half of those that still cycle (46 per cent) saying that they have created, or are looking to create, an indoor set up at home.

Twenty-nine per cent also expect to continue cycling indoors in some capacity after lockdown ends.

The Peak District has been named as the number one dream destination for a post-lockdown ride. Mick Kirkman / Immediate Media

As lockdown restrictions begin to ease, more than half (57 per cent) of those polled are looking forward to an epic ride, with the Peak District emerging as the top destination. 

However, it’s not just beautiful roads on the minds of cyclists – many of the responses expressed a wish to simply get back to the daily commute and to cycle with friends.