What are the health benefits for children who cycle regularly?
Some of the benefits are:
improved strength of muscles, ligaments, tendons and bones
improved efficiency of heart muscle and physical endurance
improved psychological well-being and reduction in stress - an ideal way to relax after a heavy day
higher self-esteem and greater confidence in performing active tasks, along with better mental functioning
fewer days off sick. A study among older employees in a factory showed a decline in the number of days taken off sick of 73% among the regular cycle commuters. I don’t know if a similar survey has been done among schoolchildren, but here perhaps is an idea for those present tonight who are able to arrange one in their school
There are also other benefits, such as:
cycling to and from school allows time for social interaction with friends and peers
it allows children to learn their way around the area in which they live and the safest and most convenient way to negotiate it. This encourages confidence and self-sufficiency
regular cycling as a child encourages a continuing active, non car- dependent lifestyle
cycling also allows children to experience the wide world outdoors at first hand rather than from a TV or computer screen - the best form of learning.
