Balanceability is the UK’s first afPE approved and accredited ‘learn to cycle’ programme for children.
In using a ‘Balance Bike’, a lightweight, pedal-less bike, it facilitates balance and propulsion. Children run along whilst seated, push off the ground to create forward movement and use a combination of their feet and hand operated brakes to slow down and stop safely.
Children learn to hold the handle bars steady and the lower part of the body is able to move freely and evenly. With an emphasis on balance and postural control, children develop the basic skills required to enable them to ride a bike independently in a controlled manner.
Balanceability comprises of fun activities that build confidence, focusing on gross motor skills, spatial awareness and dynamic balance skills, enabling young children to cycle without ever needing stabilisers.
Mini Bikers Balanceability is made up of 15 sessions, Toddler Balanceability, Level 1 and Level 2 courses all run over a five week period.
The Balanceability programme offers children a great opportunity to become competent cyclists at an early age through the development of balance and control. The programme is made up of progressive learning experiences, with fun ways to learn to cycle on balance bikes. This programme is a foundation for cyclists of the future, through which young children can practise and achieve the balance needed to ride a bicycle, but without the encumbrance of pedals.
Patricia Maude MBE, lecturer in physical education at Homerton College, University of Cambridge and author of Physical Children, Active Teaching
The courses are run over a period of five weeks. All equipment, balance bikes and helmets are provided. Courses have limited spaces therefore booking early is highly recommended. All children are awarded certification on completion of the course.
Mini Bikers courses are all based on learning which is fun, interactive and enjoyable in an indoor safe environment.
The success of the Minibikers Balanceability programme proved that 96% of children age above 4 years old were able to safely ride a pedal bike on completion of the course.