Cycle training helps Tina back on her bike

Tina Hyndman is a South Gloucestershire resident who has taken up the offer of free Bikeability cycle training from South Gloucestershire Council.

Tina said: “I haven’t cycled since I was a child and Alison my cycle trainer has been absolutely brilliant teaching me how to get back into cycling, building my confidence and in making the experience so enjoyable.

“In just three lessons I have gone from being very wobbly and just cycling in car parks to having the confidence to cycle on the roads and in traffic.

“It’s never too late to learn to cycle and I would certainly recommend the scheme, cycling is so much fun as well as being healthy.

“I got back into cycling because I wanted to do the ‘Women for Women’ cycle ride in China. With the Bikeability training I am confident that in 11 months time I will be ready to complete the 280-mile bike ride.”

The council offers free cycle training to anyone who lives, works or studies in the district to encourage adults to rediscover the benefits of cycling.

This brilliant offer involves a qualified cycle instructor visiting the individual at a time and place that suits them and providing training that is tailored to the person’s specific needs. In partnership with the instructor, a plan will be put together for each training session so that the person can become a more confident cyclist.

All residents are eligible for up to three one-hour sessions and complete beginners are eligible for up to five one-hour sessions of Bikeability training.

Cllr Brian Allinson, executive member for planning, transportation and strategic environment, said: “The council is pleased to be able to offer adult cycle training in South Gloucestershire which is proving to be increasingly popular with residents. Adult cycle training can help all sorts of cyclists, whether you're a complete beginner, returning to cycling or just looking to improve your skills on the road. Tina is a great example of how improving your confidence on a bike can enable you to enjoy cycling again.”

To find out more or to book a session online visit www.betterbybike.info/cycle-training or phone 01454 868449.

Tina is riding the ‘Women for Women’ ride for Professor Lord Robert Winston’s charity funding crucial research to save mothers’ and babies lives.

Pictured: Alison Calder (left), Tina Hyndman (right)