I live in an ideal part of the suburbs. I’m close to my work, school, the swimming pool, the grocery store, etc.,. In many instances, the scooter is more consistently faster than driving and finding parking.
Commute times (door to door):
: Work : School : Grocery : Swimming Pool
Walk : 40 min : 15 min : 25 min : 15 min
Bike : 15-20 : 5-10 : 15 min : 5 min
Scooter: 10-15 : 5 min : 10 min : 3 min
Car : 5-10 : 5-10 : 5-10 : 5 min
My problem is, I really need to make changes in life, like go to the swimming pool more often even in winter; get a better job which will be farther away. I think I’m putting these off because I don’t want to drive.
All of these will be easier if I just embrace driving my car more. I can take groceries more easily. I can carry more swim equipment and I won’t get so cold coming home from the pool. But I don’t like driving because I feel like I’m a greater danger to myself and others, even though I’m a pretty careful driver.
Do any of you face similar challenges; do you just drive when it makes the most sense to drive?
Alternative solution: live closer in smaller digs.
But really, those figures are low enough already. Why would you even consider driving to a swimming pool you can get to on foot in quarter of an hour? What’s the point of swimming if it’s not to get some exercise? Ah! The unfathomable ways of Americans!
Personally I find even a bike to be too much effort. A 40-minute walk is a positive feature for me. But sure, I live in a place where walking is pleasant, thank goodness.
In high school I used to walk to and from the pool all the time because I had no choice. But in the winter especially it’s so cold and I’m still damp from the pool. The pool is crowded after work until about 8pm so I’d be walking back pretty late. There is a big hill. It is also bulky to carry the kickboard, towel, fins, etc., and they drip water on you so I’ve been lazy and just not going. I should really just do it any way. But it’s easier to stay home.
Fair enough.