Longer cycling for seniors
Cycling offers exercise, freedom and independence. But over the years, people tend to lose their cycling skills. Even after a long break, for health reasons for instance, the threshold to jump back on the bike can be high.
De Fietsschool therefore offers a low-threshold programme that encourages seniors to cycle again, or for longer. Safely and confidently.
Inspiration session 'Keep cycling for longer'
In an inspiring workshop, we show participants that you can continue cycling all your life. And can also learn to cycle (again) at a later age. We discuss cycling trends and alternative bike types, give practical tips on how to stay safe in traffic and talk about cycling associations and local initiatives for seniors. Finally, we also test out e-bikes and other adapted bikes.
Ideal for over-65s, even those who think they can no longer cycle.
Cycling course for the elderly
Sometimes elderly people no longer feel so confident on a bike or in traffic. Or they feel that their body no longer wants to keep up. In a series of lessons, we help elderly people on their way to cycling safely and more confidently again. Each series consists of 5 cycling lessons of 2 hours duration.
We build cycling skills step by step, at the pace of the participants. We give extra attention to balance, stability and bike control. Also suitable for elderly people who want to (re)start cycling at a later age.
Content of the cycling course
Lesson 1: Practical training on safe terrain: Participants practice in a safe location around keeping balance, braking, looking around, indicating direction and dealing with obstacles. Adapted to the level of the group.
Lesson 2 : Refresher on road code for cyclists (theory): Clear explanation of the road rules for cyclists. Topics include the right of way rules at intersections and roundabouts, as well as tips on visibility and safe driving behaviour.
Lesson 3: Cycling in quiet traffic: Participants take a guided bike ride through quiet traffic, applying the traffic rules for cyclists along the way.
Lesson 4 : Defensive cycling and risk perception (theory): Understanding common hazards, such as blind spots, and how to deal with them safely as a cyclist. Participants also practice risk perception and anticipating other road users.
Lesson 5: Cycling in heavy traffic (optional): Participants apply the learnings in practice, on a route tailored to the participants and their daily reality.
Who is this offer suitable for?
- Service centres and associations committed to promoting safe travel among residents
- Local authorities wishing to encourage residents to continue cycling for longer
- Senior citizens wishing to (re)learn to cycle
- Senior citizens wishing to strengthen their cycling skills
Practical
The number of workshop participants is unlimited. There is a maximum of 20 participants for the cycling course. They can use their own bike or a test bike. Insurance goes through the organising partner.
Fancy a longer bike ride?
Our offer combines theory, practice and inspiration. We start from recognisable situations and respond to possible thresholds such as uncertainty, changed traffic situations and physical limitations. This is how we give older people:
🚴 More cycling fun, social interaction and exercise opportunities
🚴 More self-confidence and motivation to keep cycling
🚴 More cycling skills and a refreshed knowledge of traffic rules
🚴 Greater understanding of defensive cycling, with reduced risk of falls and accidents