FREE adult cycle training sessions at Leicester Cycle Circuit have been extended into September.
The city council’s popular Ride Leicester training programme - which supports people aged 16 and over to learn to ride or improve their cycling skills - was due to finish on 24 August. However, due to growing demand, four additional sessions have now been added - on Monday evenings on 7, 14, 21 and 28 September.
The sessions run from 6-8pm at the cycle circuit on St Oswald Road, in New Parks.
Janet Hudson from the city council’s active travel team said: “We’ve already trained 45 new participants at our adult cycle training sessions this year and we’re still getting interest in the sessions, so we’ve extended them into September. It’s a welcoming and supportive environment for adults who have never ridden a bike before, or who might be returning to cycling after a number of years, or want to build confidence and develop their skills.
“We provide bikes and helmets, or you can bring your own. Either way, you can expect tailored one-to-one tuition from qualified trainers, a friendly and encouraging atmosphere, and participants supporting one another as they develop their skills.
“You can go at your own pace, then as you gain confidence and when you feel ready, we can help you progress to accompanied rides into the city centre, gaining real-world cycling experience.”
Councillor Geoff Whittle, Leicester City Council's assistant city mayor for transport, said: "These sessions are helping more people discover the benefits of cycling, regardless of their age or previous experience.
"Learning to ride a bike can be life-changing. It improves confidence, supports physical and mental wellbeing and can open up new opportunities for getting around the city, making the most of our network of safe, dedicated cycle lanes and secure city centre cycle parking facilities.
"The fact that so many residents have already taken part this year shows just how valuable this support is, and we're delighted that the programme can continue into September."
One participant, Remsha, said: "I never thought I'd learn to ride a bike as an adult. Coming to the free Ride Leicester sessions changed that completely. The instructors were so patient, and it felt like such a supportive, fun space to try, wobble and try again without any judgement. It's given me so much confidence."
Participants who successfully complete the training may also be able to borrow a Brompton bicycle free of charge for up to three months, or apply to join the city council’s e-bike loan scheme. Further opportunities for training and social cycle rides are available through women's confidence-boosting rides and the wider Ride Leicester programme of led rides.
Places on the adult cycle training sessions are free, but booking is recommended. To find out more, email cycle-city@leicester.gov.uk
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