BetterPoints York allows everyone who lives, works or studies in York to earn rewards and win prizes for walking, running, cycling and using the bus. One such prize is the iTravel Inspiration. Chris was chosen as our latest winner and received a £25 York Gift Card for sharing his story. For your chance to win, download the app via the App Store or Google Play or by scanning the QR code at the bottom of the page.
When Chris joined BetterPoints York, he didn’t expect it to transform his daily routine. Here, he tells us how using the app helped him become more active, rethink how he travels, and make lasting changes to his health and lifestyle.
How did you find out about the app and why did you choose to get involved?
“I first came across BetterPoints during Covid, when I was working at a retailer in York. We regularly received promotional materials, and that’s how I noticed some BetterPoints York flyers.
I was approaching 40 and had started to become more conscious of my health, so it seemed like a scheme that could really benefit me. I was also intrigued by my carbon footprint, so I decided to download the app and I’ve been using it ever since.
Before joining BetterPoints York, what were your travel habits like?
“For commuting, I mainly used the car. For other journeys, I would sometimes take the bus. In terms of physical activity, I played football and did a bit of running.”
How has the app helped you to travel more actively and sustainably? What features do you enjoy?
“It really helps that the app is easy to use. I keep the tracking toggle on all the time, so I can go about my day without having to think about recording each journey.
When I do check in, I enjoy seeing how many minutes of activity I’ve accumulated on the homepage, it’s motivating to see that progress.
How have your travel habits changed since using the app?
“After getting the app, I started cycling to work two days a week. When I saw how many points I was earning, I began cycling every day. I also started walking and cycling into town more, which turned out to be much quicker than I expected.
With all the extra exercise, I began losing weight naturally. While my rewards were increasing, my waistline was decreasing! I lost two stone in my first year of using the app and have managed to maintain that weight since. Being more active also means I can treat myself to a piece of cake from time to time.
“Currently, I work night shifts and cycle two miles to work and back. I don’t have to deal with traffic or de-ice the car, and I whizz past cars sitting bumper to bumper. It feels great!
We’ve also been able to get rid of one of our cars. I now share a car with my daughter when needed, no more than twice a week.
What benefits have you noticed as a result?
“Being more active has made a big difference to both my physical and mental health. It even led me to change my diet, as another way to feel better. In a way, BetterPoints has indirectly helped me swap microwave meals for more salads!
Driving less has also helped my bank balance and allowed me to see more of York. When I’m walking, running, or cycling, I can really take in my surroundings and appreciate what a beautiful city it is.”
To join BetterPoints York, simply download the free BetterPoints app via the buttons or QR code below and register an account with your York postcode. If you live outside but commute in please enter the referral code: yorkooa.
