While many people engage in cycling as a primary means of exercise or transportation, it is also a great way to connect with your children no matter what age they are. Not only can biking with children give you more time with your kids but it also has so many benefits for your children you wonder why more people don’t do it.
Healthy and Fun
The World Health Organization has recognized that the obesity epidemic is an international problem that stems from low nutrition, little to no exercise, and lack of education about health. One of the only ways to fight this epidemic is to engage children in exercise at an early age followed up by healthy foods.
One of the best ways to get children to exercise is to take them biking. Children who are used to going on a bike ride will also want to learn how to ride their own bike when the time comes. When your children are very young take them with you when you cycle using a bike seat or a trailer. As they grow older, take them with you on days that your training is easier. Not only will the kids have a good time but they’ll also learn how to combine play time and exercise.
Kid-Friendly Cycling Gear
Children love to have their own things, especially when it’s similar to what parents or older siblings have. If your child shows a keen interest in cycling as a sport, invest in children’s bicycling gear. Shoes, helmet, and a bike are a great way to continually encourage your child to stick with cycling as a sport. Kids bikes can be relatively inexpensive and serve as great hand me downs so you can get maximum use.
Family Time
Spending time together as a family is the biggest benefit of cycling with your children. Today’s world seems to be so busy that it’s easy to let the small but important moments fall through the cracks. However, cycling with your children is a perfect way to get your kids active and spend time with them as well. Playing outside, discovering new trails, and taking the time to learn about nature as you ride will give your kids good memories for their lifetime.
There are many different ways in which to bike with your children. From bike seats and trailers, your child can be involved with bicycling from an early age. Learning to bike themselves will give you something to do together that keeps your children active and healthy. Teaching your child to be active and eat properly will also keep them healthy in an increasingly sedentary world.