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Cincinnati unveils new bike skills course to boost health and fitness

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  Published in Health and Fitness on Friday, October 31st 2025 at 20:39 GMT by Local 12 WKRC Cincinnati
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A New Path to Health

Cincinnati’s health officials have long highlighted the city’s struggle with rising obesity rates and sedentary habits. According to recent data from the Ohio Department of Health, nearly 30 percent of adults in the region report not meeting the recommended 150 minutes of moderate exercise per week. By creating a structured, community‑focused bike program, city leaders aim to address these concerns head‑on.

“The goal of the bike skills course is simple: give people the knowledge, confidence, and resources they need to ride safely and enjoyably,” said City Health Director Dr. Angela Martinez during a press briefing on Monday. “We want to turn our parks into spaces where everyone—from kids and teens to seniors—can feel empowered to get out and stay active.”

What the Course Offers

The two‑week introductory course is free for all participants and covers a range of topics, including:

• Basic Bike Mechanics: Learners will get hands‑on instruction on how to assemble, tune, and maintain a bicycle, ensuring that riders can keep their equipment in top shape.
• Safety and Road Rules: Participants will review traffic laws, proper hand signals, and how to navigate both on‑road and off‑road environments safely.
• Physical Fitness & Endurance: Instructors will integrate short, guided rides that gradually build stamina, incorporating strength‑and‑conditioning drills suitable for all fitness levels.
• Mental Well‑Being: The program also features mindfulness and breathing exercises to help riders manage stress and foster a holistic sense of wellness.
• Trail Etiquette: When riding on the Cora Mountain Bicycle Trail, participants will learn about trail etiquette, wildlife protection, and how to minimize environmental impact.

Classes will meet twice a week, with each session lasting approximately ninety minutes. Instructors are certified cycling coaches affiliated with the Cincinnati Bicycle Association, and many bring decades of experience in youth training and community outreach.

Mt. Airy Parks & the Off‑Road Alliance

Mt. Airy Parks Prevention Center, located in the western part of the city, has been earmarked as the program’s home base. The facility already hosts a variety of fitness and wellness programs, and the new bike course will complement existing efforts by providing a unique, low‑cost option for residents.

“The partnership with the Off‑Road Alliance is a critical component,” explained Karen Lee, director of the Off‑Road Alliance, a nonprofit that champions safe off‑road cycling throughout the state. “We’ve worked hard to develop the Cora Mountain Bicycle Trail, a 5‑mile loop that offers varied terrain—from gentle gravel paths to steeper, more technical sections—perfect for a progressive learning environment.”

The Cora Mountain Bicycle Trail, named after local advocate and cyclist Maria Cora, is situated within the scenic Mt. Airy Parklands. Its design includes clear signage, rest stops, and a built‑in bike repair station. The trail’s moderate difficulty level allows newcomers to experience a real biking adventure while still being supported by the course’s structured guidance.

Community Reception

Residents in the Mt. Airy neighborhood have expressed enthusiasm for the new initiative. “I’ve always wanted a safe place for my kids to learn how to ride, but we’ve never had a program that fits our schedule,” said local parent Marcus Dugan. “It’s fantastic that the city is putting something like this together.”

The program also has a broader social impact. By encouraging biking, the city hopes to reduce traffic congestion, lower carbon emissions, and promote community cohesion. City officials plan to track participation rates, assess changes in local health statistics, and collect feedback to refine the curriculum over time.

How to Join

Enrollment for the inaugural course begins next month and is open to residents of all ages and skill levels. Interested individuals can register online through the Cincinnati Parks and Recreation portal or drop by the Mt. Airy Parks Prevention Center during business hours. The city is offering a limited number of complimentary bike rentals for those who do not own a bicycle, ensuring that financial barriers are minimized.

Looking Forward

As the city prepares to roll out the program, Dr. Martinez emphasized that this is just the beginning. “We’re excited to see how our residents will take advantage of this opportunity, and we’re committed to expanding similar programs across Cincinnati,” she said. “Bike is one of the most accessible, affordable, and environmentally friendly ways to stay active, and we believe this course will lay the groundwork for a healthier, more connected community.”

For more information about the bike skills course, the Off‑Road Alliance, and the Cora Mountain Bicycle Trail, visit the Cincinnati Parks and Recreation website or contact the Mt. Airy Parks Prevention Center directly.