Many people learn to ride a bike at a very young age and participate either recreationally or competitively. Bicycles can be found in every country of the world and in many countries bicycles are a primary means of transportation. For individuals with disabilities adaptive road cycling is a popular activity and is a great way to be social, get the blood pumping and feel the wind through your helmet.
Click here to see a video about the history and types of Para-Cycling
Youth Handcycle
Everyone should experience the thrill of riding a bike fast on the road. Road cycling is a great activity to stay in shape as it is a great cardio vascular work out. It can also be just the pace for a leisurely ride through the country side. With the number of bicycle enthusiasts growing annually it is a great social activity that individuals, couples or the whole family can enjoy. For individuals with disabilities adaptive road cycling is a very sought after pastime with many benefits. Specialized road cycles have been designed and adaptations have been made to bicycles to accommodate every ability level.
For information about adaptive cycling click on the links below:
· Union Cycliste Internationale: International Federation over seeing Para-Cycling for individuals with physical disabilities. Great intro VIDEO about adaptive cycling on this link.
· US Paralympics: Cycling info for individuals with physical disabilities. Includes information about the US Paralympic Team.
There are adaptive cycling programs around the United States which will be happy to offer anyone an introductory lesson. Click here to visit the Disabled Sports USA cycling resource page including equipment and programs.
Adaptive bicycles come in many shapes and sizes. Styles include:
Handcycles for individuals with lower extremity impairments
Tandems Bicycles for individuals with visual impairments, assistance with balance, or cognitive disabilities
Recumbent (laying down) Bicycles: for individuals with balance issues, amputations or strokes.
Tricycles: for individuals with balance issues or cognitive disabilities.
These are just a few examples of adaptive bicycles. Several other bike styles can be seen by clicking here to be taken to Bike-On an adaptive bicycle retailer.
Adaptive Road Cycling is a great opportunity to be active and attain a level of fitness or competition with in one’s ability level. It is a great tool for rehabilitation and there are numerous city bike lanes and bike paths in the United States to safely ride on. Grab your helmet and smile and get on an adaptive road bicycle today.
Click here to see a video of mother and daughter on an adaptive bicycle
Click here to see a video of a handcycle competition
-RAM
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