FIT-Ability Tandem Cycling is a sports club located in Canberra that provides cycling opportunities for individuals with vision impairment or other disabilities. The programme is a part of Pedal Power, and aims to bring the joy of riding to people who would not otherwise be able to cycle. FIT-Ability relies on volunteers for all aspects of planning and running its activities.
The club consists of two types of participants: stokers and pilots. Stokers are individuals with vision impairment or disabilities who ride in the rear position of the tandem bike, while pilots are confident riders who sit in the front position and guide the stokers. Piloting a tandem bike is not much different from riding a single bike, so confident riders are encouraged to give it a try. For those who are not able to ride independently due to vision loss or other disabilities, tandem riding offers a great opportunity to experience the thrill of cycling.
The dedicated volunteers at FIT-Ability can help develop the skills and confidence needed, even for individuals who have never ridden a bike before.
FIT-Ability provides a range of tandem bikes for its cyclists. The club matches riders with the type of bike that best suits their size, cycling experience, and riding style. Some participants bring their own tandem bikes to the activities, and the club also considers requests to loan their tandems so that FIT-Ability participants can ride with friends or family members.
Regular rides are organised by FIT-Ability, and participants have the opportunity to join various types of rides depending on their interests and abilities. These include Pedal Power social rides, cycling events such as the Big Canberra Bike Ride, Rotary Five Peaks, and Fitz's Challenge, cycle racing with ACT Veterans or Vikings Cycling Club, and even triathlons involving cycling, swimming, and running, with guiding available. In addition, participants can organise private rides of their own choosing.
For individuals interested in learning more about FIT-Ability or becoming a tandem pilot or stoker, they can contact the club via email at fitability. Act@gmail. Com.
FIT-Ability encourages everyone to join as a Pedal Power member, as membership provides insurance coverage for riding 24/7 anywhere in the world. The club's website offers helpful links for joining Pedal Power and renewing membership.
FIT-Ability Tandem Cycling is dedicated to providing accessible cycling opportunities and creating a supportive and inclusive environment for individuals with vision impairment or disabilities in Canberra. Whether one wishes to ride as a pilot or a stoker, FIT-Ability welcomes all to try out tandem cycling and experience the fun and freedom of riding together.