Young people with Cerebral Palsy's experiences of adapted dynamic cycling

There are limited opportunities for young people with CP to participate in healthy leisure activities. Their lack of activity can impact on their long term health and well being. Cycling is one activity that can be adapted for young people with CP. A pilot research study is being carried out looking at the effects of adapted cycling for children and young people with cerebral palsy (CP). Within a sample of seventeen, three young people with CP (Julia 14, Matthew 15 and Andrew 17 years respectively) volunteered to be part of this study. This involved having their lower limb muscle strength and length measured, prior to six sessions of adapted cycling and then repeated afterwards. They were asked to keep a diary about their physical activities including the cycling and to take part in an interview about their cycling experiences. The adapted cycling experience provided a new environment for participation for each young person in a unique way. Julia had limited verbal communication and was described to enjoy the experience by ‘the joy in her face’. She was able to pedal the bike independently, requiring supervision for steering and direction. Julia was also able to participate in cycling in school as was Matthew. Andrew was able to participate in cycling with a carer for the first time, giving his parents a break. Adapted cycling provides an opportunity to enable young people with CP to participate in a leisure activity with health benefits