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CHAIN: A new training program for riders with disability

The University of Melbourne is looking for Victorian based allied health professionals, teachers, cycling coaches and sports and recreation practitioners to participate in a study to test the feasibility of a new online training program for young people with disability.

Titled CHAIN, the program will consider the following topics relating to young riders with disability:
  • Cycling: cycle-skills training and cycling sports.
  • Health coaching: goal-setting and targeting participation in cycling.
  • Adaption: adapted bikes/trikes and adapted cycle skills and drills.
  • Inclusion: inclusive principles and models for disability.
  • Networks: community cycling networks and the National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS).

The self-paced online training program aims to support practitioners and coaches who are interested in providing evidence-informed cycling interventions.

CHAIN was developed in 2020/21 by researchers from the University of Melbourne, in collaboration with Victoria-based partners invested in cycling, disability, education, health and recreation.

The project statement says: "Cycling is a fun physical activity and a common goal for children and young people with disability. Despite its popularity, many children and young people with disability face significant challenges to learn how to ride and participate in community cycling. Research shows that having access to skilled practitioners and programs can lead to riders with disability achieving cycling goals and developing cycling skills."

The program includes interactive case-studies, resources, videos and links to further learning for for riders with disability, their parents or immediate supports.

CHAIN takes approximately 4 hours to complete and can be done at your own pace over 6 weeks. You can continue to log in and access CHAIN’s resources until October 12th 2021. CHAIN’s content will be hosted on Future Learn which is a trusted learning platform used by the University of Melbourne

Find out more about CHAIN, check your eligibility and get involved in the study here.er3w