Kids Cycling Club in Esher
Cycling has been one of lockdown’s most popular pursuits for both children and adults – why not extend the adventure and head off-road?
If lockdown has taught parents anything, it’s that necessity is the mother of invention.
But with another six weeks of activity (or inactivity) lying ahead – we may find ourselves scraping the bottom of the creative barrel.
However, there is one pastime that never seems to disappoint – cycling.
Whether your child is mastering their first two-wheeler or popping a wheelie at the local ramp, riding a bike offers youngsters a vast range of benefits from fitness to experiencing their first taste of freedom.
Across South-West London and Surrey there is a raft of cycle routes, towpaths and parks, but after more than 12 weeks of lockdown, why not head further afield to one of the many off-road riding spots?
Once ‘normality’ is restored, you could even encourage them to join one of the clubs that offer children the opportunity to ride with their peers in a variety of settings.
Andy Weddell is one of the volunteer coaches at Elmbridge Eagles Bike Club which (under normal circumstances) runs sessions for children aged seven to 16.
The club offers youngsters the chance to build their stamina and confidence, with rides taking place at different venues across Surrey every Saturday during term time. Each session costs £5.
“Our groups are very relaxed and parents are welcome to ride along too,” explains Andy. “We go out for about 90 minutes and the routes and trails are a mix of terrains to give the children a wide range of cycling opportunities.”
Aside from the obvious benefit of offering traffic-free cycling, mountain biking can give your child a whole host of new skills as they quickly learn their way around the bike’s braking and gear systems, and how to quickly assess potential hazards. It also encourages awareness and appreciation of the great outdoors, not to mention boosting their independence and self-confidence.
“Everyone falls off – for many of us it’s at least once a week,” laughs Andy. “But it becomes second nature to just pick up the bike and get back on.”
Another advantage is that mountain biking can be enjoyed whatever the weather.
“As long as you are wearing suitable clothing, you will be fine. I think we have only cancelled once, when it was just too icy. The kids don’t seem to mind at all, although I am not sure some of the parents are as keen.”
According to British Cycling, MTB Trails follow a strict grading system from green – suitable for beginners and most bike types to black – which should only be attempted by ‘expert’ mountain bike riders on ‘quality off-road’ bikes. Surrey has a good mix of trails (see panel) suitable for all ages and abilities.
“Mountain biking is great for young people as they can head off into the woods which is a bit more exciting than a roadside cycling path, meet friends and have some exercise. And it’s something the whole family can enjoy – we take the bikes when we go away, there are plenty of paths and routes that are suitable for very young riders and you get to see more of the area you are visiting.”
As with many hobbies, there is an inevitable cost involved, although Andy is quick to point out that it needn’t break the bank to kit out beginner riders.
“Basically you need an off-road bike with decent sized tyres, gloves and a helmet – we don’t allow any of our riders to take part in a session without a helmet. As children get older or start to take it more seriously, then you can invest in more expensive kit, but we certainly don’t ask parents to buy specific bikes. The aim is to get youngsters involved in a sport that they can enjoy as they grow up.”
- To find out more about Elmbridge Eagles Bike Club, visit: elmbridgeeagles.wordpress.com or to find a club in your area, visit: britishcycling.org.uk.
- Twickenham Cycling Club also runs off-road activities for kids, as well as road cycling and competitions. Find out more at twickenhamcc.co.uk
