Sunny Health

The new policy that permanently allows personal mobility devices and foldable bicycles on the train has brought plenty of cheer to the users of these devices. My neighbour Clara was especially ecstatic about it. She couldn't stop gushing about how she could now wake up later than usual. The two stretches she goes on foot to the MRT station from home, and then from the MRT station to work, takes her about a total of half an hour if she walks with a fast pace. In contrast, zipping through them on her e-scooter saves her about 20 minutes. Not to mention, she would not be a sweaty panting mess by the time she reaches office. And multiply that by two to include the same route she travels home.

But a week later, Clara had a new concern. She was clocking far less "active" time and footsteps on her pedometer. Before she started using her e-scooter, she could easily accumulate 10000 steps a day and more, the recommended minimal amount of daily physical activity for an adult. Since then, she is barely making it to 5000 steps.

Clara is certainly not going to be the only person experiencing a dip in physical activity, following the new policy. With the exception of bicycles, most PMDs are merely small versions of cars to get you from one place to another. Hardly any physical effort is required, which means that one is not doing any work while operating these devices. So it is crucial that those who are ditching their daily walks in favour of PMDs make more time to exercise and stay active.

For starters, instead of using the e-scooter, go for the foldable bike instead, or better still, use one of those rental bikes like oBike and Mobike, which can easily be found around high human traffic areas like outside the MRT stations. Of course, that would possibly mean having to bring a change of clothes and footwear as there are some clothes and shoes that are simply not suitable for cycling. And it will probably also lead to perspiration and frazzled hair.

Another way is to incorporate daily walks, in the morning and evening after dinner into your lifestyle. On top of reaching your daily minimal physical activity quote, it would be a good opportunity to clear your mind and enjoy the fresh air from the outdoor greenery.

So go ahead and enjoy the convenience provided by your PMDs, but don't forget to keep walking!