What is it?
Cycling is the practice of riding bicycles - although it originated as a practical means of transport, it is now one of the most popular recreational sports in the world, with over one billion bicycles present in the world today. Cycling can also refer to the riding of unicycles, tricycles and quadracycles, but those are much less common.
What does it involve?
The physical technique to cycling involves sitting astride the bicycle to operate the pedals, which in turn rotate the wheels and provide the forward movement of the vehicle, while the handlebars give the cyclist control over direction. While the basic form of the bike stays the same, sports bikes are often more lightweight and are designed to be as streamlined as possible, while mountain bikes have different gears the rider can switch between to assist with movement on steep slopes.
Why do it and what are the benefits?
Cycling is a great form of exercise - it builds up general stamina and strength, and is greatly beneficial for the cardiovascular system. It's widely considered to be an excellent form of transport over short distances, and learning to cycle can save a lot of money on other means of getting around.
What equipment do we need?
Beyond the obvious need for a bicycle, you will need safety equipment that should include a helmet at the minimum. If you are taking a group of students to a specific activity provider then it's likely that they will provide a majority if not all of the needed equipment - make sure to check with them beforehand.
Who is it suitable for?
Cycling is suitable for all ages! Very young/inexperienced cyclists can have stabilizers attached to their bikes to assist with learning, but everybody should have a go - the overwhelming popularity of the bicycle means its almost guaranteed one will have an opportunity to ride one in their life, so to learn the skill young would be a great idea.
Costs?
The hire of cycling equipment may not be the cheapest, but the lessons themselves shouldn't cost too much money at all - the larger a group, the cheaper it will be per person.
Issues/Things to think about? (unsuitable for age groups, medical conditions etc)
Beginner cyclists will need careful supervision, especially if practicing near roads!
How do we include?
There is a fair amount of independent movement in cycling, so those with severe physical disabilities may not be able to have a go on the traditional bike; check with your provider to see if they have modified bikes that you can use!
Doing it abroad?
Cycling is often one of the main methods of transport in many countries around the world due to the low operating costs and easy operation! Going on cycling trails abroad could be a fantastic idea, and a great way of travelling between places and admiring the landscape.
Main Organisations:
National Cycle network run by Sustrans
More Dirt (Mountain Bike trails listings)
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