Research Report: Exploring the Transition from Recreational to Challenge Rides
Published
There are a number of cycling challenge rides across the country each year and we know that women who participate in these cycle more regularly each week.
Women in Sport embarked on a project to investigate how to transition those women who are cycling recreationally to take part in challenge rides.
My biggest concern when I was thinking about entering [a challenge ride for the first time] was that I would let everyone down.
Key findings
We found women had 3 main barriers from transitioning from recreational cycling to challenge events:
- Fear of not fitting in
- Fear of what might happen on the day
- Lack of confidence
Recommendations
- The most persuasive messages identified through the research were those which sought to reassure women that challenge rides were welcoming, for a mix of abilities and planned for safety.
- Ensuring she has behind the scenes support.
- Together she is stronger. The best way of reaching recreational riders was felt to be through existing challenge riders.
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Download the report
