Riding BMX bikes is a fun and exciting way for kids to stay active, build confidence, and develop important life skills. BMX has been around since the 1960s and is now an Olympic Sport!
A little bit of history of BMX:
California Born Bicycle motocross (BMX) started in the late 1960s in California, around the time that motocross became a popular sport in the USA. The motorised version of the sport was the inspiration for the human-powered competition.
BMX Spreads Worldwide BMX racing offered exciting action at a low cost, and the infant sport became an instant hit, especially in California. This led to the foundation of a sanctioning body for BMX in the USA in the early 1970s. Over the following decade, the sport gradually gained in international popularity.
Olympic History It was in 2008 in Beijing that BMX made its debut on the Olympic programme. The men’s event was won by Latvia’s Maris Strombergs. In the women’s event, it was France’s Anne-Caroline Chausson who took the first Olympic title in this discipline.
It is super cool, BMX freestyle will make its second appearance at the Olympic Games at Paris 2024, and it promises to be another thrilling competition. The best riders in the world will be aiming to qualify for the Games and fight for a spot on the podium with their vast array of tricks.
Here are some of the top reasons why parents should encourage their kids to ride BMX:
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Physical Activity: BMX riding is an excellent form of exercise that helps kids stay physically active and healthy. It helps improve cardiovascular health, balance, coordination, and overall strength.
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Confidence Boost: BMX riding helps kids develop a sense of self-confidence and independence. The thrill of successfully landing a trick or completing a challenging course can give kids a boost of confidence that they can carry into other areas of their life.
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Skill Development: BMX riding requires practice and dedication, which can help kids develop important life skills such as perseverance, determination, and problem-solving. It also helps kids build hand-eye coordination and reaction time, which can be useful in many other sports and activities.
- Stress Relief. The seriousness and responsibilities of life can be tough sometimes even for kids. BMX takes their mind out of the situation that could be causing stress and focuses them in on the thing in front of them at that given moment. Active kids are betting at coping with stress and learning new things builds self esteem.
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Social Connection: BMX riding can be a great way for kids to connect with others who share their passion for the sport. Riding with friends or participating in BMX events can help kids develop important social skills and build lasting relationships. Check out your local BMX parks for classes, clinics and open riding times.
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Fun: Riding BMX is a constant pursuit and attainment of fun. Perhaps the most important reason to encourage kids to ride BMX is simply because it's fun! The excitement of racing, doing tricks, and exploring new trails can provide kids with an enjoyable and engaging hobby that they'll look forward to every day. You will see kids of 3 years old as well as 53 year olds! The fun is ageless.
In conclusion, BMX riding is a great way for kids and adults to stay active, build confidence, develop important life skills, connect with others, and have fun. From the moment they head out the door on a BMX, they are creating a new adventure. So, the next time your kids ask to ride BMX, encourage them to give it a try! Are they the next BMX Freestyle Olympian?
Related Blog: The Best Strategy to Buying a New BMX Bike!
Local BMX Parks:
