Get into cycling
Cycling in a group is a great way to get into cycling. Groups are free, run all year on flat routes, and most of all are fun.
Benefits of cycling groups
There are lots of benefits to cycling in a group, including:
- led by a ride-leader
- supportive groups
- groups run all year round
Take part in a cycling group
Our cycling groups are perfect for:
- beginners or returning cyclists
- anyone aged 18 or over
- men and women
- people that want to cycle more
For more information on the cycling groups or lessons call us on 01634 333 720 or email: cycling@medway.gov.uk
Upcoming rides
Riverside Country Park, Gillingham, ME7 2XH | Every Thursday | 60 minutes | 10:15 |
Gillingham, Meet opposite The Star restaurant, Watling Street ME7 2AA | First and third Sunday of the month (15 April to 19 August) | 75 minutes | 9:45 |
Hoo Swimming Pool Car Park, Main Road, Hoo ME3 9EY | Second and fourth Sunday of the month | 60 minutes | 9:45 |
Meeting point | Day | Duration | Meeting time |
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Cycle lessons
We also run cycle lessons for adults at Strood Sports Centre.
For more information and session dates please email cycling@medway.gov.uk
Benefits of cycling
“The numbers of people choosing to cycle for fun, fitness or to get to work has increased by more than a quarter in twenty years and an incredible 3.2 billion miles are cycled on our roads every year.” – Department for Transport THINK! website
Many people cycle because of the multiple benefits it can provide.
Cycling can:
- provide a broad muscle workout, using all major muscle groups in the body – it builds strength, stamina and aerobic fitness
- cause less strain and injuries than other forms of exercise, because it is a 'low-impact' activity
- be as intense as you want. For more information regarding how much to exercise, visit the NHS exercise advice page
- provide outdoor fun – you are more likely to continue with exercise if it is fun and interesting
- replace time spent driving, and help reduce pollution and your personal carbon footprint
If you're just getting started, check out the NHS Live Well guide ‘Cycling for beginners‘.
Medway cycle clubs
If you are interested in joining a cycle club, we have a list of sports clubs under the Clubmark standard.
- Wigmore Cycling Club
- Grain Peninsula Cycling Club
- Medway Velo Cycling Club
- Medway towns Cycling Touring Club
- Medway Tri
- Rochester Cycling Club
- West Kent Cycling Touring Club
- Kent Trails
Cycle Training in Schools
Bikeability is our cycle training programme which can help you develop practical skills and understanding to keep you safe when cycling on the road. It also gives you the confidence to get out and about with all kinds of cycling.
For further information please visit the Bikeability page.
Cycle Routes
View – cycle maps in Medway
The Heron Trail is an 18 mile (29km) trail connecting the villages of Higham, Cliffe, Cooling, High Halstow, Hoo and Upnor.
Highlights include view of both the River Medway and the River Thames and detour routes including the Royal Society for the Protection of Birds with sightings of herons.
More information on the Explore Kent website.
Useful links
- Sustrans to volunteer to help maintain cycling routes
- West Kent CTC for organised cycling rides.
- NHS Live Well cycle page for a guide to practical road safety tips and a safety gear checklist
- Medway Council Cycling Action Plan gives more information about what we are doing to promote cycling