Many of our young riders spoke about how cycling gets them outside, bringing a sense of calm and clarity. Hawys from West Wales Cycle Racing Team shared how being on her bike makes her feel:“Happy, refreshed, and alive again.” Cycling: More Than Just a Sport Riders like Alwena of PDQ Racing Team feel that cycling […]
Many of our young riders spoke about how cycling gets them outside, bringing a sense of calm and clarity. Hawys from West Wales Cycle Racing Team shared how being on her bike makes her feel:
“Happy, refreshed, and alive again.”
Cycling: More Than Just a Sport
Riders like Alwena of PDQ Racing Team feel that cycling gives them both mental and physical strength:
“Riding my bike is like no other feeling. When I’m racing along the tarmac or sprinting on the track, my mind feels free and strong.”
For some, cycling is about pushing personal boundaries and finding pride in achievements. Mali from Towy Riders explained:
“When I ride my bike I work really hard and I have fun. I feel proud of myself for taking part when I race.”
As we close Children’s Mental Health Week, let’s continue to encourage more young people to get on their bikes, enjoy the ride, and discover the many mental health benefits that cycling can bring.
The Power of Being Outdoors
It’s also about belonging to a community that uplifts and supports. Owain from Towy Riders finds confidence in both his club and the velodrome:
“I feel relaxed when I’m on my bike and like nothing can stop me. The velodrome is my happy place.”
Likewise, Cadan of PDQ Property Elite Race Team finds relief from anxiety when on his bike:
“Cycling helps my mental health by allowing me to forget my worries about school and helps to control my anxiety. When I’m on my bike, I’m in my happy place.”
Building Confidence and Resilience
And for Ben, the Welsh Hill Climb Champion, cycling is pure joy:
“When I’m on my bike, I smile. I feel I can’t think of anything else. It’s my happy place.”
For Jacob of Cardiff BMX Racing Club, cycling is all about self-expression:
“I feel free when I’m on my bike and any worries don’t seem as bad. It boosts my confidence and I can totally be myself when I’m with my BMX family.”
Cycling as Therapy
Meanwhile, Onitha from Towy Riders simply loves the feeling of being in nature:
“Being outside close to nature is the best thing for me.”
From BMX tracks to road racing, from velodromes to the great outdoors, cycling offers a unique escape for young riders. It’s a chance to clear the mind, boost self-esteem, and connect with others who share the same passion.
Cycling and Family Connections
This week, we’ve been celebrating Children’s Mental Health Week by sharing the voices of young cyclists across Wales, highlighting how cycling supports their mental well-being. Through their stories, we’ve seen how bikes aren’t just a means of transport or competition – they’re a source of happiness, confidence, and freedom.
A Sport That Empowers
Similarly, Emily from Llynfi BMX Racing Club finds joy and relief from stress through cycling:
“It makes me happy and helps me to forget about any worries.”
This week has been a reminder of the profound impact cycling has on young people’s well-being. A huge thank you to all the young riders who took part in our campaign and shared their experiences. Your words have shown how cycling is more than just a sport – it’s a source of joy, resilience, and confidence.
Thank You to Our Young Riders
For some riders, cycling is more than a sport – it’s a form of therapy. Joseph, a sprinter for Wales Racing Academy, put it perfectly:
“Cycling is a form of therapy for me; it clears the mind, lifts the spirit, and strengthens the body.”
For some, cycling isn’t just about the individual – it’s about shared experiences. Anest & Heledd from Whitchurch Cycling Club love how cycling brings them together:
“Cycling gives the children so much confidence and independence, and it’s something we enjoy doing together as a family.”
