Genuine cycling culture at Housing Foundation 'thuis
Published on 7 April 2026Last week, a special prize appeared at the doorstep of Woonstichting 'thuis: a mobile bicycle mechanic. The organization won this pit stop on wheels with the bicycle challenge during Brainport Bike Week. Team leader for housing management and avid cyclist Helmy van Baal considered it a bullseye.
‘'For me, cycling is simply a wonderful start and end to my workday. And many colleagues feel the same way. We even got a bigger bike shed because our old one didn't fit anymore. We really motivate each other and are avid commuter cyclists. The cycling challenge contributed even more to that. The grand prize proves how successful that was!', says Helmy.
Stimulating via the Brainport Bike Week
‘'Thuis won the challenge because it had the highest average number of rides per participant of all participating employers. 'The challenge revolves around cycling as many kilometers as possible with colleagues, motivating each other and working together towards a shared goal. That game element works well. People took their bikes just a little more often and kept encouraging each other. That resulted in a total of 5,357 kilometers cycled!'‘
Great price, nice bike
And so, many colleagues benefited from the on-site bike mechanic last week. 'A van came to our premises with a mechanic. Everyone could drop off their bike. The mechanic performed quick checks and immediately carried out minor repairs, such as fixing the lights or adjusting the brakes. It's nice, because it's easier to get on a bike that works properly. I know that from experience; I hardly cycled in the past. But about ten years ago, I tried my mother's e-bike. It felt so good that I bought a second-hand e-bike that same week. Since then, I haven't really stopped.'‘
Vitality and sustainable employability
At 'thuis, cycling fits perfectly within the broader focus on vitality. 'We are a really active club when it comes to health. We organize many activities such as a boxing clinic, a mountain bike tour, and lectures. We also have a cycling plan that is used extensively every year. There are even waiting lists. We also have 12 e-bikes that can be used for home visits. They are being used extensively.'‘
Continued focus on cycling and exercise
Cycling remains an important focus for the future as well. 'For me personally, but also within the organization. It is healthy, sustainable, and easy to stick with. For those who want to encourage this: joining such a challenge is a fun way to get moving together. You work towards a shared goal, and that is motivating. And Brainport Bereikbaar has even more great tools and initiatives. Cycling is worth investing in!'‘
Get inspired!
Do you want to keep Brainport accessible? Join us. We would be happy to discuss this with you. To work on opportunities, innovations and solutions. Because we can only do that together. Contact us at info@brainportbereikbaar.nl.
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