Thursdays After-School and Sundays Mornings
Thursdays: May 1, May 8, May 15 and May 22
Sundays: May 4, May 11 May 25 and June 1
Time:
Thursdays - 4:30 pm to 6:00 pm (1.5 hour lesson)
Sundays - 10 am to noon (2 hour lesson)
Locations:
**First two lessons will be in Collingwood 11th Line and the two lessons will be at Loree Forest
George Christie Trails - 11th Line Collingwood 193-211 Eleventh Line, Collingwood, ON L9Y 5G6
Loree Forest - 729153 Side Rd 21, Clarksburg -Located south of Thornbury on County Road 2, east of Victoria Corners where parking is available at the top of the hill on Sideroad 21
Program Outline
Week 1: Introduction to Mountain Biking
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Bike Basics and Safety
- Introduction to types of bikes and components (focus on mountain bikes)
- Proper bike fit and adjustments (saddle height, handlebar position)
- Safety rules: wearing helmets, checking the bike before riding
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Starting and Stopping Techniques
- Learning to start and stop safely
- Practicing braking techniques with front and rear brakes
- Basic balance exercises: riding in a straight line and controlled stops
Week 2: Footwork and Steering
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Basic Bike Handling Skills
- Introduction to body positioning on the bike
- Drills for practicing steering and balance while riding at slow speeds
- Techniques for looking ahead while riding
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Riding on Flat Terrain
- Riding in a straight line, maintaining balance, and control
- Practicing turning right and left safely
- Exploring different surfaces (grass, dirt, gravel) to build comfort
Week 3: Introduction to Trails and Terrain
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Trail Etiquette and Basic Trail Riding
- Understanding trail signs, right-of-way rules, and biking etiquette
- Guided ride on a beginner-friendly trail, emphasizing safe riding pace
- Practicing observation of trail features (turns, hills, small obstacles)
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Riding Over Obstacles
- Introduction to small natural obstacles (logs, rocks) and how to approach them safely
- Techniques for lifting the front wheel (wheelie) to navigate obstacles
- Practicing controlled riding over bumps and small features
Week 4: Skills Review and Fun Challenges
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Skills Review and Confidence Building
- Review of all skills learned: starting, stopping, turning, and navigating terrain
- Fun games to reinforce skills (e.g., slow bike races, balance challenges)
- Building confidence through group encouragement and teamwork
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Final Ride and Celebration
- A guided group ride that incorporates all skills learned throughout the program
- Skills showcase for family and friends: participants demonstrate techniques
- End-of-program celebration with certificates of completion and group reflections
Program Benefits:
- Development of foundational biking skills in a safe environment
- Encouragement of physical activity and outdoor exploration
- Building friendships and social skills through group activities
- A sense of accomplishment and confidence in riding abilities
Required Gear:
- Mountain bike (in good working condition) with gears
- Properly fitting helmet (mandatory)
- Comfortable clothing and closed-toe shoes
- Water bottle for hydration and energy-boosting snacks
- Optional: Basic repair kit and extra inner tube
RAIN DATES: - If we have to cancel class due to inclement weather - You will be notified by email an hour before the lesson starts. The make up lesson will be added on to the end of 4weeks.