5 useful tips for when cycling with your family
Spring is around the corner, and sunny weather for outdoor activities is finally here. Most of us have been hibernating and now that the sun is out, the perfect way to keep your family active is with a cycling trip. Outdoor activities are always a great way to bond as a family.
Planning an outdoor activity can be a hassle, and that is why thorough planning is needed to ensure your schedule goes according to plan. When planning any activity that will involve kids, you should always try and make it fun, so plan ahead to guarantee a positive outcome.
Exploring new routes and trails can be an exciting experience for your family. But first, you will have to find the most suitable route for your fitness levels. Cycling as a group of adults is vastly different than when you’re riding with kids. And that is why you must consider their capabilities when planning cycling trips. See below for some top tips for when you cycling with your family:
Bike safety
Before dusting off your bicycle and riding, bike safety is one of the most important factors to consider. There is always a possibility that you might not have used your bike recently; therefore, a safety check is in order to ensure that the bike is still in its optimum condition.
Things to look at when conducting a safety check on your bike are:
- Wheels: rotate the wheels to see if they are loose on the frame, and also check to see if they are not touching the brake pads.
- Bike saddle: check if the bike seat is fitted properly and spin it to tighten it.
- Rusting: check for any rusting, especially on your kid’s bike. A bit of surface rust is not something to worry about, but if the bicycle chain has rust, you may want to oil it.
That very first family cycling trip will be an everlasting memory, but to ensure that the outing will be enjoyable, make sure you have the correct bike size for your children. Comfort is important when you get a bicycle for your kids, as this will affect their tolerance and ability.
Plan your route
Choosing the most suitable route for your adventure will be difficult. In any planning you do, ensure that you accommodate your children. Your child’s age and riding skills play a big role in their tolerance, it gives you an idea of the type of trails they’re capable of riding on.
It’s understandable not to know where to start. So, begin your search by visiting your local tourist info centre to discover exciting routes, and don’t forget to search on the web. Unlike adults, kids don’t have much cycling strength for long-enduring trials; therefore, make sure to choose short trips. Pick a flat route as hilly terrain will not be suitable for young kids.
Pack a snack
To avoid any tantrums on your adventure, make sure you pack light snacks. We all know how grumpy kids can get when they’re hungry, so make sure you have enough snacks and refreshments. A sandwich and something to sip on is a great idea. But for the adults, a snack bar with water will go further, as you will need to consume foods that will boost your energy.
Have the appropriate clothing gear
The clothing you wear on your cycling trip will largely depend on the weather. Wearing the appropriate gear when cycling not only ensures that you perform comfortably, but it also protects you from weather conditions. Ideally, you wouldn’t want to go on a cycling trip in bad weather conditions, so check the weather forecast and plan your clothing gear accordingly.
Most adult cyclists will have basic cycle clothing, but your kids might not. Your little ones not having the appropriate clothing is nothing to worry about. However, when you prepare your clothing, ensure they wear comfortable tracksuits and sturdy shoes that are not soft-soled.
Stay in control
Children are not as comfortable riding as you are; therefore, you must reassure them and boost their confidence. For kids, cycling is the best way to learn control and speed, so cheer them on and encourage them to ride at a safe pace. If you are riding on a footpath, ensure they steer clear from pedestrians, and try to be a helpful coach during this time.
Final thoughts
Your kids might not be as experienced as you are, but there is certainly a lot to learn from them. Children naturally have a different outlook on life, and it may help you let loose and have fun. When planning a cycling trip, ensure that you involve your kids in the planning stage so that they can anticipate the day and look forward to the family event.