e. Previous Time to Ride learnings
This new 2008/09 program builds upon the Time to Ride Program which was supported by the Office of Senior Victorians in 2005-06.
Bicycle Victoria was delighted with the results of the Time to Ride program. The enthusiasm of Time to Ride participants, gives us confidence that bicycle riding in this audience can proliferate in the same way it has in other sectors of the community.
Key learnings from Time to Ride will be incorporated into the new two-year program. Understanding of older participant’s barriers and motivators to riding grew substantially providing useful information for Bicycle Victoria and a strong basis for further programs.
Key learnings from the Time to Ride Program that will inform this program are:
- riding partners and local mentors are important elements
- time is the major barrier as many seniors are still working and/or simply busy people
- health concerns or fear of falling were not major barriers to starting to ride
- fitness, meeting people, relaxation and enjoyment were the major motivators
- it is helpful for participants to be able to access hands-on support
We found that delivering activities in a local setting (local ride buddies, mentors, Ride Leaders and partners) sets the scene for long term sustainability. It adds an element of reality which can more easily be integrated into participants’ lives. Participants are likely to tell their friends and encourage their families to join them. Confidence, skills and knowledge can all be built with ease.
- we need to help older people with knowledge about how to get started
- we need to provide knowledge about where to get support
- encouragement and education about the benefits of cycling with like minded people may be needed to get started
- provision of support is needed in some cases where there is lack of confidence to get started
Researchers may wish to download a PDF of the final Time to Ride report - click here.
