Win £10 by inspiring others to switch to healthier and greener travel habits
The Changing Steps Cardiff challenge allows everyone who works or studies at Cardiff University to earn BetterPoints and win prizes for walking, cycling and using public transport. One such prize is the 'Sustainable Travel Star'. Claudia was chosen as our latest winner and received 10,000 BetterPoints (£10) for sharing her story. For your chance to win £10 and other prizes, download the app via the buttons or QR code at the bottom of the page!
Claudia’s move to Cardiff sparked a new walking-filled routine, supported and inspired by the BetterPoints app. Here is what she had to say:
How did you find out about BetterPoints and what were your habits like when you signed up?
“I was browsing the university website and came across it there.
I am a very active person. When I lived in the US and Vietnam I would run ultra marathons. But when I came to Cardiff around a year ago I was shocked by the weather. Running here wasn’t so appealing, but I wanted to maintain my exercise.
My solution was to commute on foot, as I soon realised that Cardiff was walking friendly. I did consider staying somewhere and travelling in on the bus or train, but I wanted to have the freedom to travel on my own timings and stay active, so I decide to live a 30 minute walk away from my school.
How have your habits changed since using the app?
I have never walked this much before arriving in Cardiff and having the app. I walk to school every day.
It’s not just to the university that I will walk either. I recently walked to get to a field trip, which took me an hour. I went for a 6 hour walk with my friend last week along the Taff River to Castle Coch. It rained but there was a double rainbow, which made it worth it! It was very beautiful. If you don’t walk to places, you don’t get to see and experience things like this.
How has the app helped you? What features do you enjoy?
It is really fun. I’ve earned some very cool medals lately. I like being told I have hit the 150 minutes of weekly physical activity target.
I use apps like Strava too, but BetterPoints is more interactive and rewarding, as you’re able to exchange your points for something. There are a variety of offers to suit all interest, from supermarket vouchers to a local bike service discount.
Have you noticed any benefits as a result?
It’s free and it makes me feel good, as I am much closer to nature. It’s been wonderful to observe the subtle changes between seasons and discover peaceful spots to relax between classes. I find walking a form of meditation”.
Not yet earning rewards for walking, wheeling, cycling and taking public transport to campus? To join Changing Steps Cardiff simply download the free BetterPoints app via the buttons or QR below, register with your cardiff.ac.uk e-mail, and tap Challenges to get started.
