Cycling To School
Why bike to school?
According to a Danish study from 2012, children who walked or biked to school performed better on tasks requiring concentration than those who were driven to school or took public transit. On top of that incredible benefit, the researchers found that the lift in concentration lasts for about four hours into the school day. The results were part of the “Mass Experiment 2012” project that examined the connection between concentration, diet and exercise among 20,000 school-aged children aged 5-19.
Other benefits of biking to school include a stronger connection to the community, a taste of independence, numerous health benefits, family bonding time and of course – exercise. The fact is biking to school improves children’s cardio fitness. In a study looking at the physical activity of 5th graders, those who regularly walk or bike to school get 3% more minutes of moderate-to-vigorous physical activity. Added together, that’s an extra 24 minutes of activity per day!
1
Before You Ride
- Check out the school arrangements or groups that already cycle to school to find out the best routes, ideas and suggestions.
- Get your parents’ permission and support.
- Check the bike over, make sure it’s a perfect fit and all parts of the bike are working, including the bell.
- Work out the best and safest route.
- Preferably, wear a fluro vest.
- Ensure you have a flashing taillight so that you can be seen.
- Have a trial ride on the weekend, preferably with a friend or parent.
2
Make sure you’re aware of all the important Road Safety Rules
- Use any designated cycle paths on the journey.
- Wear a helmet!
- Signal clearly at all times to let other road users know which way you are going.
3
Useful tips to remember
- Ride in a position where you can see and be seen at all times.
- Make eye contact with other road users, especially at junctions and roundabouts, then you know they’ve seen you and understand where you’re going next.
- When riding at night always use a working white front light and red backlight, plus a red rear reflector.
- If you’re cycling on paths shared by walkers, wheelchair users and horse riders:
- Ride at a steady, moderate pace – speed can intimidate other riders, dogs and horses if they are on your route.
- Use your bell to let others know you are approaching, but don’t assume they can hear or see you.
- Give way to others and always be prepared to slow down and stop if necessary.
- Be careful at junctions, bends or entrances and be aware of where other people are going.
4
Make cycling to school a group activity
- Get your friends and mates involved, so that you can share the fun and experience.