Cycling is good for both yourself and the environment. At the cycling action days at the Technische Hochschule Mittelhessen (THM) in Giessen and Friedberg, cyclists also helped refugees from Ukraine and the student government: the student union (AStA) and the Green Office team offered coffee and waffles in exchange for donations. The proceeds went to the " Giessen Helps Ukraine" campaign and the university's student associations. The demand for the – not exactly athletic – snack was correspondingly high.
Many students were interested in the event, which was being held again for the first time in two years. New students, in particular, took advantage of the opportunity to get advice from the police on how to protect their bicycles from theft and to have them registered as security codes. The officers also provided information about the risks of cycling under the influence of drugs and alcohol.
Many cyclists took safety seriously: Benjamin Ulm from the Bike Service Center Rechtenbach was kept busy with bicycle check-ups in Giessen , while the Rückenwind team was busy in Friedberg. There, bicycles brought in by participants were checked within just 15 minutes, and afterwards, helpful tips on maintenance and care were given – along with a drop or two of oil for the chain.
The ALLRad association showcased alternative cycling options in Giessen 's Wiesenstraße: Visitors could test various bicycles and cycling concepts at their stand. Information was also available on renting cargo bikes, inclusive bikes, handcarts, and bicycle trailers. Meanwhile, in Friedberg, the ADFC (General German Bicycle Club) presented the Wetterau region as an attractive destination for excursions.
Complete bicycles and spare parts were available for a small price at the bicycle flea market. Those who sold their bikes there could donate the proceeds to fellow students. university sport also provided information about its programs and encouraged participation in the city's cycling challenge, particularly within the THMteam. And because exercise makes you thirsty, the Techniker Krankenkasse (a German health insurance company) invited interested individuals to enjoy a non-alcoholic smoothie. However, participants had to "mix" it themselves while cycling on a stationary bicycle.
