5 Exercises to Improve Your Child’s Balance Bike Skills
If you have a child who is just learning to ride a balance bike, you may be wondering how you can help them improve their skills. Balance bikes are a great way for kids to learn how to balance on two wheels before moving on to a traditional bike with pedals.
Straddle Walks
One of the best ways to help your child improve their balance bike skills is through straddle walks. Have your child straddle the bike with both feet on the ground, then encourage them to walk forward while keeping the handlebars steady. This helps them develop a sense of balance and control while moving the bike forward.
Gliding
Once your child has mastered straddle walks, it’s time to move on to gliding. Gliding is the act of coasting on the bike without touching the ground. Encourage your child to pick up their feet and glide for a few seconds at a time. This helps them get a feel for the bike’s balance and how to control it while in motion.
Cone Weaving
Setting up a simple obstacle course with cones can be a fun way to improve your child’s balance bike skills. Have them weave in and out of the cones without stopping or putting their feet down. This helps them work on maneuvering the bike while maintaining their balance.
Figure Eights
Another great exercise to improve balance bike skills is figure eights. Set up two cones and have your child ride around them in a figure eight pattern. This helps them develop their turning skills and learn how to control the bike while moving in different directions.
Uphill Riding
Finally, one of the best ways to improve your child’s balance bike skills is through uphill riding. Find a gentle slope and have your child ride up it without putting their feet down. This helps them learn how to maintain their balance while moving uphill, which can be a challenge for many young riders.
