Change4Life: Cycling is good for you

Aug 20 2009 By Andrew Hirst

CYCLING – whether it’s an everyday activity or occasional adventure – is a great way to keep kids healthy.

Getting on their bikes more often can help them on their way to making the small changes that can bring short and long term benefits to their health, the environment and also your pockets!

All you need is a roadworthy bike and some basic safety gear and then it just takes a little bit of practice.

That’s why Bike4Life has been launched in support of the Change4Life campaign, which aims to help kids eat well, move more and live longer.

Children need to do at least 60 minutes of physical activity every day that get their heart beating faster than usual.

This activity can be made up of short bursts throughout the day and cycling is a really simple way to get some of these minutes.

Cycling can be enjoyed by most people whatever their age. But, encouraging kids to cycle from an early age and teaching them road safety will equip them with a skill for life.

There’s lots of ways to get cycling in your area. Visit www.kirklees.gov.uk for information on local groups or try these websites:

www.britishcycling.org.uk – organises led bike rides for beginners and recreational cyclists aged five upwards.

www.sustrans.org.uk – find cycling groups near you on their interactive map tool.

www.bikeability.org.uk – cycling proficiency for the 21st century, giving kids the skills and confidence they need.