Gearing up for Inclusion: A Community-minded, Family-centered Approach to Adaptive Cycling

The “bike boom” that emerged during the pandemic has highlighted cycling as a means for fitness, transportation, and outdoor socially distanced activity. Studies prior to the COVID-19 pandemic show that while many children are not meeting the recommended 60 minutes of moderate to vigorous physical activity daily, even fewer children with disabilities or chronic health conditions meet these guidelines. The pandemic has limited access to physical activity through closures of schools, recreation centers or organized sports, which has likely resulted in even lower levels of physical activity among these individuals. Adaptive cycling provides unique opportunities for individuals with disabilities to engage in physical activity, socialize with their peers, and participate within their community. This session will discuss strategies for teaching independence and success in adaptive cycling. Additionally, we will present considerations to aide in the selection of an appropriate adaptive cycle incorporating individual goals for cycling and considering prior barriers to community cycling.