In the bike-friendly city of Portland, Oregon, doctors are prescribing an unusual treatment for a range of health issues: bicycling.

The innovative “Bike Prescription” program partners healthcare providers with local bike shops to get patients cycling. Participants receive a “prescription” for a bike, along with safety gear, training, and a structured riding program tailored to their health needs.

This eco-friendly approach to health is showing promising results for conditions ranging from obesity and diabetes to depression and cardiovascular disease. Plus, it’s helping reduce car emissions by encouraging active transportation.

“My doctor prescribed me a bike instead of pills,” one participant beamed. “Now I’m healthier, happier, and doing my part for the environment. It’s a win-win-win!”

As cities worldwide strive to become more bike-friendly, programs like this showcase how urban design, healthcare, and environmental stewardship can work together for healthier communities.