The council is inviting York’s older residents to saddle up and try cycling at a series of free taster sessions and courses that will help people new to cycling to build their confidence and skills.
Taster sessions will be on offer at the off-road York Sport cycle track on 23 March from 10am-12 noon and 28 March from 1-3pm.
Courses that aim to help those new to cycling to ride with confidence will be on offer across the city, taking place on:
- · 6, 13, 20, 27 April at Energise from 3-5pm
- · 5, 12, 19 and 26 April at York Sport cycle track from 1-3pm
- · 6, 13, 20, 27 April at Rowntree Park from 10.30am – 12.30pm
- · 5, 12, 19 and 26 April at Burnholme form 10.30am – 12.30pm (indoors)
Regular cycling has been proven to reduce the risk of chronic illnesses such as heart disease, type 2 diabetes and strokes. It can also help to also enhance mental wellbeing. It’s also a great way to keep weight under control and contributes to the recommended 150 minutes of weekly exercise for adults.
Executive member for transport and planning, Cllr Ian Gillies, said: “Cycling is a great way to stay fit and healthy as it is a low impact activity where participants can do as much or as little as they feel comfortable with. It also offers a good low cost transport method for getting in and around the city.”
To book a place on a session or course email fiona.barker@york.gov.uk or call 01904 553377. Free cycle hire is also available on a first come first served basis for people who need a bike. For more information visit www.itravelyork.info
