During this period of confinement we tend to stick to our usual activities. Creating a timetable offers reassurance, allowing us to breathe and get our creative juices (re)flowing. DIY, family time and board games become more popular again. Bike Experience gives you some ideas to keep yourself busy and take care of yourself, those close to you and your bike (of course!).
A few days ago, we learnt about the government's measures to prevent the spread of coronavirus in Belgium. The following clear and justified guidance was given: Until 5 April Belgians must stay at home or can visit a park (with their family or one friend) to get some fresh air and exercise.
But cyclists shouldn't miss out! In fact, they don't have to! What if this period of confinement were the ideal time to occupy ourselves in other ways?
Here are some activities that we recommended for the days ahead:
For beginners:
- If you have a bike, this quiet time could be the chance to get comfortable with your bike. If you are a bit nervous, practise short distances along your street or around an enclosed area, for example.
- Familiarise yourself with good cycling practice and consult the 10 golden rules of cycling. This guidance will make you more confident when you cycle in busy areas.
- Curled up on your sofa, alone or with others, rediscover the joys of cinema. A range of films from around the world on topics such as female emancipation promise for a great night in. Short of ideas? Here are some films that could interest you: The Day I Became a Woman, Raoul Taburin, WADJDA, Etienne, The Hamster Movie, Beijing bicycle, Le gamin au vélo.
For seasoned cyclists:
- Get out and go on a bike ride, alone, with a member of your family or with a friend (as long as you keep 1.5 metres away from them during your little excursion).The roads are currently a lot quieter and less polluted. Some parks are still open. Be careful, don't forget to follow the basic hygiene guidance very closely. Keep your distance from others and stay at home if you feel unwell.
- Start planning your cycling holidays! In Belgium there are different cycle routes that are worth exploring. In Wallonia you can plan a route based on RAVeL paths or a network of intersections, for example. If you are a fan of challenges and longer distances, there are also the European routes EuroVelo. Take the time to plan one or more routes that you would like to discover this summer. There are also some blogs such as Voyage-Velo which are sure to offer some inspiration.
- So, it's the ideal time for a spring clean? Then spruce up your bike. Reinflate your tyres, check your brakes and clean your bike. If you want more information on this subject, read 'Entretenez votre vélo ' written by Pro Velo which will give you all the necessary information. Use this time to check your children's bikes too.
For families and creative minds:
- What do you think about 'pimping' your bike? Pinterest is a goldmine for finding inspiration! It is very popular in northern countries where there are more bikes, but it is yet to take off in Brussels. Have fun, add some colour to your life and turn your two wheels into a work of art! Bike For Brussels has done just this and shared videos.
- You can also pimp your helmets with appropriate paintwork and stickers.
- If you are lucky to have a garden or a small enclosed area, organise outdoor games with your children. The slow race, for example, requires you to travel as slowly as possible. Although a funny idea at first sight, it leads to improved dexterity in children who can already cycle well.
Those are some activities to while away the time during confinement. Have fun!
To find out more about the safety measures or if you have questions about getting out and about during the confinement, look at the following website.