Cycling as a family bonding activity
- 25/06/2024
Explore the wonderful world of family cycling and how it can provide you with not only a great way to stay active but also bring your family closer together. It's time to pedal together! Grab your helmets and let's get started!
Why cycle as a family?
Cycling isn't just about getting from A to B; it's about the journey in between and when that journey is shared with loved ones, it becomes a great bonding experience.
Here are some reasons why cycling as a family is such a fantastic idea:
1. Shared adventures
Cycling allows families to explore new places together, whether it's a local bike trail, a scenic countryside route, or a coastal path. These shared adventures create lasting memories and provide opportunities for bonding.
TOP TIP: Choose routes that pass by historical landmarks or sites of interest. You can research and share fascinating facts about each location as you ride.
2. Healthy habits
Instilling a love for cycling from a young age promotes a healthy and active lifestyle for the whole family. Plus, it's a low-impact exercise that is suitable for all ages and fitness levels, making it an inclusive activity that everyone can enjoy.
TOP TIP: Schedule regular family bike rides, such as every weekend or on specific weekdays. Having a set routine makes it easier to maintain the habit.
3. Unplugged time
In today's digital age, it's more important than ever to unplug and spend quality time together as a family. Cycling allows you to escape the screens and distractions of everyday life and reconnect with each other and with nature.
TOP TIP: Make it a rule that during family rides, children keep all devices at home or in a backpack turned off. This ensures that everyone is present and engaged with the experience.
4. Communication and teamwork
When cycling together, families must communicate and work as a team to navigate routes, overcome challenges, and ensure everyone stays safe. These shared goals foster communication skills and teamwork dynamics within the family unit.
TOP TIP: Gather everyone before starting the ride. Discuss the planned route, any potential hazards, and safety rules (like hand signals and bike etiquette).
According to research from the National Institute of Health, families who regularly engage in outdoor activities together, including cycling, report higher levels of cohesion and communication. These shared experiences foster stronger bonds and create lasting memories.
Fun activities to enhance the experience
There are many ways that can help keep the fun alive whilst out on your bikes together. Take a look at these ideas below:
Cycling games
Scavenger hunt: Create a list of items or landmarks to find during your ride. This can include specific plants, animals, or objects. Download the nature scavenger hunt activity sheet here >>
I-Spy: Play the classic I-Spy game with a twist, focusing on things you see while cycling. Be sure to keep your eyes on the track or road ahead.
Wildlife spotting: Challenge your kids to spot and identify different types of wildlife along the route
Counting vehicles: Make a game of counting different types of vehicles or specific colours of cars you pass by
Cycling challenges
Alphabet Game: See how far you can get through the alphabet by finding items that start with each letter
Weekly Challenges: Set cycling goals for the week, such as riding to school or completing a bike obstacle course. Download the ‘Get on your bike’ cycling challenge activity sheet here for ideas >>
Follow the leader
Take turns being the “leader” who decides the route and the pace. The leader can also incorporate fun actions like ringing the bell, waving, or taking a specific path. Set a timer or choose a landmark after which the role of the leader switches to the next family member.
Picnic stops
Incorporating a picnic stop into your family cycling trip can transform a fun ride into a delightful outing filled with food, relaxation, and beautiful views. Select parks with lush greenery, water bodies like lakes or rivers, and ample open space. Opt for locations with picnic tables, toilets, and litter bins for convenience. Take a look at our ‘tips for planning a bike-friendly picnic with kids’ blog >>
Photography and journaling
Why not document your cycling adventures through photos and journals? This can be a fun way to remember the trips and create a family scrapbook together. Remember to share your adventures on social media and tag @frogbikes!
Incentives and rewards
Motivating kids by setting cycling goals can be a great way to get them excited about cycling. You could set achievable distance goals, such as biking 2 miles without stopping and rewarding them with a favourite snack or treat after completing the ride. Or focus on specific skills like riding uphill, using hand signals, or maintaining balance, and use a sticker chart to celebrate achievements. Download the Frog reward chart here >>
Family cycling events and communities
Local events
Find out about local cycling events, such as family bike rides, charity rides, and cycling festivals which are all great ways for families to have fun together and meet other cycling enthusiasts. Cycling UK lists social rides and cycling events here >>
British Cycling highlights that participating in local cycling events and joining community clubs not only enhances physical health but also encourages social interaction and community engagement. Families can meet like-minded individuals and build supportive networks.
Cycling Clubs
There are many family-friendly cycling clubs and groups that organise regular rides and events, helping families to connect with others who share the same interests. Check out Cycling UK for more information >>
Online Communities
Here are some recommended online forums and social media groups where families can connect, and share tips, stories, and advice on family cycling:
1. Cycling UK forum: Cycling UK hosts a forum where members discuss various aspects of cycling, including family cycling tips and experiences. It's a great place to ask questions, share routes, and connect with other cycling enthusiasts.
Visit the Cycling UK Forum here >>
2. Mumsnet cycling forum: Mumsnet, a popular parenting community in the UK, has a dedicated cycling forum where parents share advice on family cycling, recommend child-friendly routes, and discuss cycling gear suitable for children.
Visit the Mumsnet Cycling Forum here >>
3. CycleChat family cycling: CycleChat is a large cycling community with a section dedicated to family cycling. It's a place where parents can discuss everything from child bike seats and trailers to organising family bike rides.
Visit the CycleChat Family Cycling Forum here >>
4. Strava clubs for families: Strava, a popular fitness app, has clubs that cater to family cyclists. Joining these clubs allows families to track their rides together, share routes, and participate in challenges designed for all ages.
Download the Strava App and search for family-friendly clubs in the app >>
Embrace the joys of family cycling and watch as it brings your family closer together, one pedal stroke at a time. Happy riding!