Steven Boers and his father on the Kivo child parent tandem of Van Raam
Down syndrome riding a bike
By practicing a lot, it turns out that a lot of people with Down's syndrome can learn to ride a bike, although it often goes a bit slower than with others. It is also easier if you learn to ride a bike at a young age. Incidentally, being able to cycle does not apply to every person with Down's syndrome. Every person has his or her individual talents. Some, for example, can ride a bike but cannot read, while others can read but cannot ride a bike. According to the study by the Netherlands Organization for Applied Scientific Research (TNO) on Living with Down's syndrome, approximately half of the young people can cycle independently if they are accompanied, and approximately 20% of the young people can cycle unaccompanied.
Why Cycling with Down's syndrome?
Movement, and so cycling too, is very important. As a result, people with Down's syndrome develop more muscle strength, stamina and are less likely to be overweight. It is also good for their independence, self-confidence and it is fun. Cycling with the family is often an important activity to be able to do something together and it is a fun social activity. Cycling is healthy, for body and mind and it is an accessible way of moving. Read more about why cycling is healthy in the article 10 reasons why cycling is healthy.