From road to track to trail, cycling offers something for everyone — whether you’re a Paralympic athlete, an old fan returning to cycling after an injury, or someone who has never been on a bike. “There really is no limit to who can participate, with the right equipment and supports,” says Keja MacEwan, director of operations for adaptive sports at Spaulding Rehabilitation of Mass General Brigham.
Adaptive cycling is as rewarding as it is accessible, MacEwan adds. “After an injury, it might seem like you can’t get back to the things you love, but you can,” she says. “If you think cycling might be your jam, let’s go do it.”
Cycling provides a range of physical and emotional benefits. That’s true whether you’re riding a classic two-wheeled upright bike or taking advantage of all that adaptive cycling has to offer.
Benefits of adaptive cycling include:
In the world of adaptive cycling, the possibilities are almost endless. “There’s a broad range of adaptations for people with all types of disabilities,” MacEwan says. Some common types of adaptive cycles include:
Purchasing a custom-built adaptive cycle can be pricey. But more and more communities are adopting programs to make adaptive cycling more accessible, MacEwan says.
At Spaulding, adaptive sports specialists lead a variety of low-cost adaptive cycling programs across Massachusetts, including one-on-one sessions and group rides. Similar programs are offered in most regions of the country, MacEwan adds. She recommends checking out Move United, a nonprofit adaptive sports organization that serves youth and adults with disabilities, to find a program near you.
For people with a competitive drive, para cycling offers many opportunities, MacEwan adds — and not just at the Paralympic level. “Races are designed so you’re racing against other folks with similar disabilities, on similar equipment,” she explains. But even if you’re not driven to compete, cycling is a great opportunity for fun and fitness for anyone ready to ride.