On a quiet path in a sunny Melbourne park, six women are playing an unusual game of limbo on bicycles. They lean forward as far as possible, riding under a foam pool noodle without losing balance. The women, aged from their late 30s to early 60s, focus intently. Many haven't been on a bike in years; some never learned. They are here to change that.
This is day two of the Women's Learn to Ride class, organized by the City of Whittlesea in northern Melbourne. Last week, they practiced balance by scooting with feet off the ground. Some started pedaling. Today, they learn turning, navigating hazards, and changing gears.
Instructor's Passion
Instructor Mara Ferraro, a 58-year-old self-described 'grandmother wearing Lycra,' emphasizes the 'pelvic lift' for hill climbs and bumpy rides. 'Your legs become like suspension in the car,' she says. Her business, Cycle Strength n' Fun, runs classes for schools, councils, and individuals. She advocates for older people and women to start cycling.
'Six or seven years ago, the attitude on the roads was really bad. It's better now with more cycling infrastructure. But we need more women on the roads. Nobody wants to run over their grandma,' Ferraro says.
Demand for her services has boomed in the past 18 months, fueled by the fuel crisis and a shift to cheaper, eco-friendly transport. 'Schools and councils are funding behavior change programs. It's the golden age of getting back on bikes,' she adds.
Student Stories
Oge, 39, had never been on a bike until now. She signed up for self-care, having learned swimming last year. Rabia, 40, decided to learn after her nine-year-old daughter with a disability took Ferraro's children's classes. 'I thought if I learn, I can help her,' Rabia says. She surprised herself by picking up basics quickly.
Sisters Vicki, 59, and Maria, 60, rode as children but felt rusty after a holiday requiring bikes. 'I want to feel confident. When you're a kid, you just ride without thinking. Now it's strange, but the feeling of freedom is great,' Vicki says.
No Age Barrier
Jane, 67, and Karen, 75, took a refresher course for women over 50. Jane hadn't ridden since Covid and fell off trying to gear down. 'I was stunned at how much the tuition helped. I came away buzzing,' she says. Karen had low confidence and balance worries, but after the course, she enjoyed riding again.
Secondhand Solutions
At the end of the Whittlesea course, participants keep the refurbished secondhand bikes they rode. Ferraro says buying new bikes is expensive, and negotiating secondhand ones is daunting for beginners. 'These bikes are old but adequate to start. If they want a lighter one later, they have experience to build on,' she explains.
