Anyone can enjoy cycling with Vivacity's Adapted Cycling Scheme (PACS) sessions. They have a range of specially adapted bikes, with both qualified cycling coaches and experienced disabled cyclists on hand to offer help and support.
This activity is good for wellbeing because
- It’s a fun way to socialise with people while you cycle or watch on the side
- With the cycle adaptations, you can build strength and skill in cycling
- You can gain confidence from seeing your abilities and skills improve!
“This has been a great way to build strength in my knees! I wasn’t even able to go up stairs but now I can. I also use the arms-only cycle to build up my arm muscles.”
How to contact
Phone
Where to go
Embankment Athletics Track
Bishop's Rd
Peterborough PE1 5BW
See the wide range of adapted cycles you can try out, including one for two people to sit side-by-side, and one that holds a wheelchair:
What to expect
This service is for people with physical and/or learning disabilities. No cycling experience is needed!
There is no age restriction, but the cyclist needs to be big enough and physically able to use the cycles (with the exception of the cycle with a wheelchair platform).
The cycles have 3 or 4 wheels for stability, with a range of seating options, and seatbelts and foot straps to keep you secure. Some cycles are powered by arms instead of legs. There’s a cycle that can accommodate wheelchairs, and one made for two people to sit side-by-side, so one can navigate and the other person just work on pedalling.
Ring or email the team to talk to them about your specific requirements, concerns and questions. They will be able to talk to you about the adaptations and support available to make cycling sessions fun and inclusive.
There’s a small carpark outside the athletics building, and everything is wheelchair accessible. Come around the building to the side facing the track (see the photos and video below on how to get there). The Vivacity team will be wearing purple shirts with the Vivacity logo. There’s a table next to the cycles where you sign in and talk to the team, selecting a helmet from the stock they have on hand if you don’t have your own.
A team member will guide you through the cycles that might be appropriate for you.
If you attend with a carer, they can learn how to assist you, and there are seats along the athletics building outside, plus indoor seating, for everyone to take a break whenever they want. There’s a kitchen where you can make yourself a hot drink for 50p, and toilets.
Wear comfortable clothing that allows a range of motion and won’t get caught in any equipment. Note that the track is outside so dress accordingly. Wear comfortable shoes if you will be pedalling with your feet.
There is a small cost per session to attend, please contact them direct to find out more.
You can make yourself a hot drink for 50p.
See how to get to the Embankment Athletic Track and where to park:
How to contact
Phone
Where to go
Embankment Athletics Track
Bishop's Rd
Peterborough PE1 5BW
