GREEN and Healthy Frome is urging people to take advantage of the sunny weather and the free Cycle Together scheme and get on their bikes to improve their mental and physical health.
The Cycle Together initiative provides a range of options for budding and experienced cyclists in the Frome area, including an e-bike loan scheme, adult cycle training, group cycle rides and bike maintenance classes that are all completely free.
The new scheme is also running a series of events with Dr Bike where locals can get a free safety check from an experienced bike mechanic and access active-travel advice, including information on local cycling groups and events.
“Cycling is not just an excellent form of exercise, it is also an opportunity to improve both physical and mental health and reduce the risk of life-threatening conditions like cancer, diabetes, heart disease and obesity,” says Dr Georgina Kirby from the scheme. “It is also a great form of active travel that can not only save you money but reduce your carbon footprint as well. The Cycle Together scheme is all about promoting the benefits of this low-impact activity and making it accessible to people of all ages and abilities.”
For those new to cycling or who lack confidence or experience in cycling on roads, the free adult training sessions are designed to make you comfortable in the saddle and are taught by qualified national standard cycle instructors.
“From one-off refresher sessions to longer courses for beginners, Cycle Together’s adult training focuses on the essential skills to improve road safety and enhance enjoyment,” says a member of Green and Healthy Frome, Annabel Crooke.
“And for those put off by Frome’s many hills, Cycle Together also enables people to try out e-bikes for four weeks via a free e-bike hire scheme. These can be booked online for a refundable £20 deposit, which also covers the loan of child seats and trailers, locks, lights, helmets, panniers and high-vis clothing – everything you need to get started.”
The scheme also offers free bike maintenance sessions, where you can learn how to take care of and repair your bike, as well as safety checks from Dr Bike’s mechanics at a series of local events. These will also provide an opportunity to ask questions, connect with cycling groups, and discover local routes.
“You don’t have to be an elite athlete to take up cycling and experience the benefits,” added Annabel. “Choosing the right bike for your ability and focusing on achievable goals means that everyone can enjoy this healthy and fun activity. And it is much cheaper and greener than travelling by public transport or car.
“Green and Healthy Frome is a National Lottery-funded project with a remit to improve the health and sustainability of Frome and its residents. The Cycle Together project aims to build a community around cycling and empower people to improve their confidence and physical and mental health by joining the two-wheel revolution.
“Join us as we journey towards a two-wheeled, healthy, more sustainable future for Frome. Let’s gear up, embrace the joy of cycling and peddle for positive change together.”
To book and find out more, go to the website www.fromebikeproject.org/cycle-together/
