Recently, an interesting article was published in the American Therapeutic Recreation Association’s (ATRA) March, 2024 newsletter about the benefits cycling for children with Attention Deficit Hyperactivity disorder (ADHD).
Here is some of what researchers, (Cameron Sterling, Christopher Peck, Caroline Cowan, Karsten Crumpler, John Avery Chapman, and Dr. Paige Dagenhard-Trainer), had to say:
Brain Activity
A study conducted on children ranging from ages 7 -14 with an ADHD diagnosis found that after just one bike ride, the observed children portrayed less impulsivity and hyperactivity (Marcks,2020). Individuals with ADHD may suffer from irritability and fluctuating moods; biking has also been proven to decrease these emotions through its positive effect on mood. The act of cycling naturally increases heart rate which in return, allows blood to be pumped throughout the body much faster than when the body is at rest. Endorphins, dopamine, serotonin, and norepinephrine are then circulated throughout the body at a more rapid speed. This faster pace action has a quicker effect on brain stimulation, energy, and mood. (Marcks, 2020).
Sleep
Alongside heightened brain activity, it is recommended that individuals with ADHD maintain a consistent and healthy sleep schedule. Having consistent sleep can improve attention, focus, and energy. Biking can help coordinate the body’s circadian rhythm which in return regulates the body’s response to awareness and sleep (Mens Line, Australia, 2022). Through biking, stress hormones that can negatively impact sleep are reduced which promotes better quality sleep (Kirszenblat, Swinderen, et al., 2015). Biking can also stimulate protein production within the body. Proteins serve the brain by supporting new brain cell production. The higher the cell production, the better the different regions of the brain work together (Mens Line Australia,2022). When the brain is stimulated in a healthy fashion, ADHD symptoms such as attention, focus, and energy can significantly increase.
Socialization
Where individuals with ADHD may lack socialization, biking can encourage friendships and communication. Biking can be done independently, but it can also be done with others, thus making it a social experience. Competitive biking is very popular in the United States, giving all individuals with interest an opportunity to compete. In the US, there are more than 3,000 cycling events per year. These include both competitive and non-competitive events. It is important that individuals with ADHD find extra-curricular activities to participate in. ADHD can also cause problems maintaining interest in certain activities. Thus, it is important that individuals find hobbies they are passionate about. Cycling is a broad activity that can be modified or adapted in many ways, making it suitable for individuals with different limitations. Its inclusive and wide-ranging potential allows for many individuals to take interest (USA Cycling, 2022).
While this article was written specifically to address the reduction of symptoms of ADHD, the same benefits apply to ALL who cycle. Fresh air and biking are medicine for the mind, body and soul. That is why we, at FATWHEELS, strive to make sure that, with a little bit of help, EVERYBODY can ride!
Until next time,
Colleen
