Parents looking to help kids burn off energy when it was too cold to play outside found a solution at Harderwyk Christian Reformed Church in Holland, Mich.
Go by Bike, an indoor bike ride event for kids, was held at the church on a recent Saturday.
Moms in Tow, a membership-based group for active families, and Velo City Cycles, a local bike shop, sponsored the event. It was free to the public.
Kara Koster, owner of Moms in Tow, attends Harderwyk Church and thought it would be a good place to give the indoor bike ride a try. “This was our first time,” Koster said. “It was a great success and a lot of fun.”
More than 40 children, ranging in ages from 18 months to 6 years, enjoyed riding along different courses set up in a church activity building. They could bring their own bicycles or use some provided by the sponsors, including no-pedal balance bikes for the littlest ones. Helmet fittings were also available.
With frigid temperatures and several inches of snow outside, the event was a good way to combat cabin fever. “Families were beginning to start feeling a little cooped up. Being able to get the kids out on their bikes was a great way to help them burn off some of the extra energy,” Koster said. “It is also a unique opportunity for the kids to be able to ride their bike in the winter.”
Another indoor bicycle event is in the works for later this winter, Koster said. “We would love to have this become a staple winter activity for families.”
About the Author
Susan Vanden Berg is a freelance news correspondent for The Banner. She lives in Holland, Michigan.
