How to Learn How to Ride a Bicycle at 53 Years Old

You're never too old to learn how to ride a bicycle.

Just because you didn't learn how to ride a bicycle when you were young doesn't mean you can't learn to ride one now. Learning how to ride a bicycle when you're in your 50s can give you a sense of accomplishment. It can also provide you with another activity to help you keep fit. One thing to remember when learning to ride a bicycle at age 53 is that you are not alone. You are not the first adult to learn how to ride a bike, and you won't be the last.

Instructions

1. Practice riding a stationary bike before attempting to ride a real bicycle. By practicing on a stationary bike, you will get a "feel" for riding a bike and learn the technique of pedaling.

2. Choose a recreational bicycle that is easy for you to sit on and still have both feet flat on the ground. Instead of learning how to ride using a bike that has a straight bar at the top, use one that has a slanted bar. The slanted bar will prevent you from hurting your crotch area if you have any mishaps while learning to ride.

3. Wear a helmet and padded clothing while you are learning to ride. Hopefully you won't fall--but if you do, the padding will keep you from getting too many bumps, bruises and scrapes. It can also prevent you from breaking a bone, because tend to be more fragile after you get over 50. You can drop the padded clothing as you get more comfortable on a bike, but always remember to wear a helmet.

4. Have someone hold the bicycle from behind as you pedal along--do this on a flat area, ideally somewhere without traffic. You have nothing to be embarrassed about--this is how most people learn how to ride a bike. With each pedal that you take, even while the individual is helping you along, you should be applauding yourself internally for daring to learn how to ride at 53 years of age.

5. Stay focused on keeping your balance and pedaling one step at a time. Don't be distracted by onlookers.

6. Practice starting and stopping until you are comfortable with how the bike handles. Don't ride fast while you are practicing with the hand brakes, if your bike has them. As you become more comfortable with the braking, you can gradually increase your speed.

References

• International Bicycle Fund: Teaching A Kid ( And Adult) To Ride A Bicycle
• Bicycle Riding School: Today Show Segment

Resources

• Read this Article in Spanish