We all need to play our own small yet vital part in slowing the spread of the novel coronavirus (SARS-CoV-2) and protecting our healthcare systems from collapse by simply staying at home.
And we need to limit our outdoor activities as much as possible too. We know that's easier said than done when kids are in the picture. In fact, we're getting a lot of people asking us whether it's a good idea to go for a bike ride at the moment. Keep reading for our advice...
When you've run out of ideas for indoor activities and you and the kids have really had enough of being cooped up inside, you can still head out for some exercise in the fresh air whilst complying with the current government guidelines. One of the options open to you is, of course, cycling. Just make sure you always check and follow the restrictions and rules in place where you live before heading out.
Plus, you need to stick to these IMPORTANT GUIDELINES to keep yourself and others safe:
- The most important thing to remember is be careful. The burden on our healthcare systems is already extremely high. And we have seen just how quickly the capacity can be exceeded – Italy is just one example of the countries in which this has happened. If people have accidents when out for their daily exercise, there will be even more strain on the healthcare systems. This is why it is so important that you limit bike rides with your kids to a few laps of the garden or other areas in your neighbourhood where there is no traffic. You could also set off on a short trip out through woodland and meadows as long as you stick to level paths. We recommend that you stay away from extended bike adventures, steep descents, complicated manoeuvres and traffic on the road.
And, as always, make sure everyone is wearing a helmet!
- Go out only with people that live in your household. You must not meet up with friends and their kids.
- Be sure to think of spots where you're likely to come across as few people as possible.
- If you do happen to see someone else, stay at least 2 metres away from them to avoid the risk of infection.
- Wash your hands with soap often, as we know that the virus can also be transmitted via surfaces. The World Health Organization (WHO) recommends you wash your hands for 20 to 30 seconds each time. But how long is 30 seconds? Little children might struggle to keep track of how long they've been washing their hands. Just tell them to sing "Happy Birthday" twice in a row to help them remember. Or why not head to https://washyourlyrics.com/ to generate hand washing infographics based on your favourite song lyrics.
Bike ride ready
Not got your bike out of hibernation yet? Before you take your bike out for its first spin of the season, you'll need to make sure it's safe and ready to go. You can get your kids involved and check your bikes over together inside the house. This is also a great opportunity to refresh everyone's cycling-based knowledge before you set off in the saddle. We've got some handy hints for you if you need them.
Look after each other, hang in there and stay safe and healthy!
