Connecticut Science Center Opens New "Cycling to Wellness" Exhibit, Sponsored by UnitedHealthcare; Encourages Visitors to Cycle for Better Health

The Connecticut Science Center today opened its latest exhibit – "Cycling to Wellness" – an interactive space that includes a virtual cycling game and is designed to highlight the health benefits of cycling.

The exhibit is sponsored by and developed in collaboration with UnitedHealthcare. Connecticut Science Center and UnitedHealthcare executives were joined by Matthew Busche, a pro cyclist from the UnitedHealthcare Pro Cycling Team, at the ribbon-cutting ceremony.

"We are excited to present this exhibit to our visitors from Connecticut and beyond – and thank UnitedHealthcare for making this possible," said Matt Fleury, president and CEO, Connecticut Science Center. "Visitors will not only get to learn more about the health benefits of cycling and other fitness-related information, they will be able to race against one another in a virtual experience."

"Cycling to Wellness" includes, in addition to the cycling game, a Build-a-Bike interactive cycling program, which enables children to test their bike designs on various landscapes from a level concrete surface to a rugged mountain trail; educational information on the health benefits of bicycling and other health-related information; and a UnitedHealthcare Pro Cycling racing bicycle used during the 2015 professional cycling season.

Busche was on hand to talk about cycling and bike safety. He reminded visitors to wear bicycle helmets, follow street and trail rules, and drink plenty of water, among other tips.

According to research, cycling is a good form of exercise. It improves cardiac health and overall strength and flexibility, and it enhances mental well-being. Connecticut has more than 400 bike trails varying in length, difficulty and terrain, according to ctbikeroutes.org.

"UnitedHealthcare is grateful for the opportunity to bring 'Cycling to Wellness' to the Connecticut Science Center so visitors can see firsthand the benefits of cycling and learn more about getting and staying healthy," said Stephen Farrell, CEO, UnitedHealthcare of New England.

Access to "Cycling to Wellness" is included with the purchase of a general admission ticket or a Science Center membership. For more information on this and other exhibits, visit the Science Center's website at CTScienceCenter.org.

UnitedHealthcare has more than 5,000 employees in five offices across the state. In addition to its collaboration with the Connecticut Science Center, the company supports organizations and initiatives in Connecticut, primarily focusing on children, senior citizen and veteran health. In 2015, nearly 3,000 employees volunteered more than 31,000 hours to community-based efforts.