It is the truth, pedaling is particularly good for children and the reasons are many: it is physical activity that does not strain the joints, it also strengthens the immune system and respiratory capacity. Not only that, it helps the little ones to maintain a correct posture, developing the sense of balance, distance, speed and that readiness for the unexpected, difficult to exercise otherwise.
There are several benefits, including psychological ones: when you learn to pedal, you brush against the first sensation of autonomy, awareness of your own abilities and responsibility regarding potential dangers on the road. Therefore, long live the bike! And what better time to pedal, if not summer?
The best time is certainly between May and June, when temperatures are milder and the heat does not cut your legs. But this is not always possible, much more often you travel right in the hottest period.
Therefore, if you and your family are cycle tourists ready for anything, with children in tow, it is better to take some precautions.
1. Choose flat tours with short stages
Determine the stops you want to make in advance, taking into account a long break in the most prohibitive time slot: from 12 to 16. In this regard, remember that on Cyclando you will find many routes already planned to give you time for stops, which you can dedicate to both visiting points of interest and refreshing breaks, sheltered from the heat.
2. Keyword: drink drink drink
Always bring water bottles and some salt supplements with you. Little ones are immediately affected by the heat, so don't underestimate continuous hydration.
3. Equip yourself with a hat, sunglasses and protective sun cream
When travelling by bike in the summer, many stretches in the sun must be covered and for this reason, to protect the skin of the little ones, it is necessary to always carry a hat, sunglasses and a sunscreen with a high protection factor, to be applied several times during the day.
4. Light but energetic foods
Whether you stop for lunch in a restaurant or prefer a packed lunch, fruit should never be missing (always apple and banana) and some cereal and dried fruit bars (when it's very hot, avoid those covered with chocolate!). Sandwiches are also always good as long as they are not too fatty and seasoned, to avoid burdening digestion.
5. First aid kit
Which mother doesn't have at least one plaster in her bag? Actually, it's not just about that. It would be better to have a small first aid kit that also contains disinfectant, sterile gauze and a pen or cream for insect bites.
6. Final stages with swimming pool, swim in the sea, or playground
The final treat after a long bike ride is a must and in the summer even more so. The feeling of exhaustion and heat are immediately relieved with a nice dip in the pool, the lake or the sea, or playing in the middle of nature.
Would you like to go on a bicycle trip with your children in the summer? On Cyclando, you will find many tours designed just for you, in Italy and Europe.