Mums get pedalling

THE launch of a new program from Bicycle Network has seen Geelong mums get on their bikes as they learn to ride.

The first Mums on Bikes session began on Tuesday this week, where participants were taught the basic skills they needed to feel comfortable on the bikes in the free sessions.

Bicycle Networks Fiona Neuwirth said the pilot program is not only about supporting women to get on the bike, but specifically for mums.

“There are many barriers that women in this space have, but in particular we’ve focused on the top ones,” she said.

“They often have young children, so we’ve arranged for there to be a babysitter on the course that will look after them.

“They potentially don’t have a bike or a helmet, which is stopping them from going out on a bike, so we’re providing the equipment for them to

use as well.”

The program is being held at the Belmont Criterium Track, where participants can feel safe knowing they are on closed roads.

Ms Neuwirth said another barrier the program had addressed was creating a space where they can be among other likeminded women, with a program that can connect them.

All sessions are led by skills instructor Alison Raaymakers, who has extensive experience in racing, as she takes participants through everything they need to know about getting on and maintaining a bike.

Bicycle Network received a Change Our Game grant, allowing them to run the initiative and encourage more women to learn how to ride a bike.

“The aim of this project is that they continue on, the participants continue on with their bike riding journey, long after the program has finished,” Ms Neuwirth said.

“We’re ready to support them in this space, and it’s such an inclusive environment.”

Bicycle Network has an existing program dedicated to supporting active travel and children riding to school, and extending this support to parents so they can ride with their kids was the inspiration behind the Mums on Bikes program.

“This is a great opportunity if people have ever wanted to learn how to ride a bike and have felt that perhaps they’ve missed that moment in their life, because they’re not a child, it’s never too late to learn,” Ms Neuwirth said.

The program will run until June 24, with registrations for the remainder of the month still open.

For more information, head to bicyclenetwork.com.au