Parent perceptions of cycle training for children with special education needs and disabilities: What drives intention to cycle?

BACKGROUND

Young people with Special Educational Needs and Disabilities (SEND) are especially vulnerable to physical inactivity. Research has demonstrated the effectiveness of tailored cycle training for children with SEND, however, it is unclear whether this then results in a greater uptake of cycling.

AIMS

To determine parent based perceptions of a SEND cycle training programme, factors which predict intention to cycle more and ongoing barriers to cycling.

METHODS

A tailored questionnaire was distributed to parents of children who took part in the cycle training.

RESULTS

Parents reported increased confidence in their child's ability to cycle independently with many also highlighting improvements in confidence and resilience. The outcome of the cycle training (level of enjoyment and change in cycling ability) had a positive influence on intention to cycle more while cycling frequency prior to training had a negative influence. Continuing barriers to cycling were identified which included difficulties accessing specialised equipment and a need for additional on-road cycle training.

CONCLUSIONS AND IMPLICATIONS

This study demonstrates the success of a specialised cycle training programme for children with SEND in terms of improvement to cycling and influences on the intention to cycle more.