5 Reasons Why Every Child Should Learn to Ride a Bike

Cycling is one of the most common forms of physical activity in Australia. But over the years, the number of children who ride has declined despite the population growth. The percentage of children under 10 years old who rode a bike in the previous week dropped from 48.6% in 2015  to 43.6% in 2021. In 2017, health experts were alarmed by a study that revealed only 10% of Australian kids ride a bike to school. 

Riding a bike is a fun activity that has several benefits for children. From improving their coordination to growing their sense of independence, there are many reasons why every child should learn how to ride a bike.

1. It’s fun!

   Riding a bike is just plain fun. It’s an excellent way for kids to exercise while also spending time outdoors. There are endless possibilities for games and exploration on a bike, which is why it’s such a great activity for kids of all ages. Riding bikes with friends also helps children to develop their social and communication skills. 

2. It improves coordination.

   Cycling requires gross motor skills. It teaches children spatial reasoning, sharpens visual motor skills, and strengthens sensory-motor skills. They also help to build strong muscles and bones that aid in balance and coordination. Riding a bike requires coordination between the legs, arms, and eyes. This can help improve a child’s overall coordination, which can transfer to other activities in and out of school.

3. It helps kids be independent and confident.

   Riding a bike can give your child a sense of accomplishment as they reach new milestones. Children who know how to ride a bike can explore their neighbourhood or travel around parks without necessarily needing an adult to accompany them. This can help them to feel more independent and confident as they grow up.

4. It teaches responsibility. 

   Because bikes need to be properly maintained in order to ride safely, children who ride bikes learn responsibility from an early age. They learn how to take care of their belongings and perform basic maintenance tasks such as pumping up tires and greasing the chain.  

   Cycling and owning a bike provides a great deal of freedom and independence. As a result, your children will learn to value their independence and freedom.

5. It’s great exercise.

   Riding a bike is excellent exercise. Children who ride bikes regularly are freeing up time that they would otherwise spend being sedentary. Exercising has numerous health benefits, including reducing the risk of obesity and heart disease later in life. CDC recommends at least 60 minutes of physical activity for kids. Biking is a good way to spend those 60 minutes. Regular physical activity has also been linked to increased happiness, while also providing children with more opportunities to make social connections.

   Cycling is also an excellent stress reliever. Encourage your child to ride a bike while they are young to help them develop healthy exercise habits that will last a lifetime.

How to Teach Your Kids to Ride a Bike

The best age to teach kids how to ride a bike is between two and eight. There are different stages of learning, and some children may begin learning on ride-on vehicles or balance bikes before they get their first "real" bike.

​​It's important to remember to start them early and without pedals to help build their confidence before they start pedalling. If you wait too long, the child will become hesitant and fearful, so it is best to start when they are young.

Visit our store to see our collection of balance bikes, trikes, pedal cars and scooters for kids.