Family Fun On the Move: The Benefits of Two Wheels
For many kids, setting out on two wheels is the first taste of honest to goodness freedom that they experience. There’s nothing quite like having the wind in their hair and the open road in front of them. Speed, exercise and independence combine to create the perfect kid (and parent) friendly activity. Getting out on two wheels is one of the best ways to have fun with the family, whether on BMX adventures to long-distance cycling jaunts.
Safety and style
Many keen cyclists maintain that babies and toddlers won’t slow them down. With myriad bike seats and trailers available for all types of bikes (and families), accommodating a brood on a bike has never been easier. Taking cues from other cultures that embrace cycling (think Japan or the Netherlands) there are all kinds of safe and stylish kid carrying options that make transport easy and fun for both parents and kids. A good tip is to practice on some quiet roads or off road before heading out and ensure your baby has a helmet on too. For older children it’s best to ensure that they have all the proper safety equipment, a properly fitted helmet is a must and you should show a good example by always wearing yours too. A road training course is appropriate, if your children would like to cycle to school and back on their own.
Starting young
In a world filled with technology, getting out into the world with the kids is harder than it used to be. Establishing healthy habits from a young age will encourage a lifetime appreciation for getting outside and enjoying exercise in informal and fun settings. For parents the benefits of cycling with the family are significant; it’s a great workout (particularly if you’re cycling with the added weight of kids in tow) and it helps maintain a positive attitude as well as relieve stress. Interactions between parent and child in the context of cycling contribute to the development of strong bonds that will last a lifetime.
Staying sharp
It’s recommended that children get 60 minutes of physical exercise per day, which can sometimes be challenging especially if kids are driven to school. Consider parking the car and hopping on a bike to encourage physical activity as a preferred method of transportation. Many teachers report that children who walk or cycle to school are mentally more alert in class and participate more. It’s also a great way to orientate kids to their local surroundings; teaching them safe ways to get around and promoting familiarity with the neighborhood and people making them feel part of the community.
So why not invest in a set of wheels — more specifically, a set of two wheels — and head out with the family. Be healthy and be happy together.
An hour of exercise for everyone in the family is so beneficial. We like riding bikes because it is a good way to get exercise and see the surrounding neighborhood. I learned to ride a bike when I was very young and I love it today.
Bikes are more than exercise: they’re FUN! Good article.
We love to bike ride through our local parks in our community. We also love the trails. Get way to get out and stay active together.
My kids always loved to bike. Our neighborhood is hilly, though, so it was rough going at first!
I’m looking at my bicycle right now, just sitting by the door, waiting. Perhaps I’ll take it out today and explore the neighborhood. Thanks for the inspiration.
Love this article and definitely agree! Kids spend way too much time indoors now, playing video games, and aren’t keeping themselves active enough. Great article!
I cant remember the last time I have been on a bike, I’m not even sure I still know how to ride one lol. But I sure loved it as a kid and so do mine.
It is so beneficial for everyone to exercise and doing it as a family outing makes it even more enjoyable. Biking is very healthy.
I am so impressed! Way to go, What an inspiring post, i love family fun with biking.