Science Says: Riding a Bike Makes You Happier—And That’s Why It Belongs in Schools
Can something as simple as riding a bike really make kids happier?
According to science: yes.
The physical, emotional, and mental benefits of bicycling are well-documented—and for kids, those benefits can be life-changing. That’s why at All Kids Bike, we believe learning to ride a bike isn’t just a milestone—it’s a gateway to a healthier, happier childhood.
Biking Boosts Mood and Mental Health
A 2022 study published in Transportation Research Part F found that cyclists report significantly lower levels of stress and higher life satisfaction compared to car commuters or public transit riders. While kindergartners aren’t commuting to the office, the brain responds to cycling the same way at any age—by releasing endorphins and dopamine, natural chemicals that boost mood and reduce anxiety.
A 2020 review in Frontiers in Psychology noted that moderate physical activity like cycling is associated with a 17% reduction in depression symptoms in children and adolescents.
Riding a Bike Builds Confidence
Mastering balance, pedaling, and steering gives kids a sense of accomplishment that builds self-esteem. In fact, a survey by OnePoll and Raleigh Bikes found that 81% of parents believe learning to ride a bike was a defining moment in their child’s confidence and independence.
Through All Kids Bike’s structured, success-oriented approach, kids gradually build the skills they need and celebrate wins along the way—often resulting in huge smiles and a newfound belief in themselves.
Nature, Freedom, and Focus
Biking gets kids outdoors—and that’s a big deal. According to the Children & Nature Network, children who spend time outside are more attentive, less anxious, and more creative. A study in Environmental Science & Technology found that just five minutes of exercise in a green space significantly boosts mood and self-esteem.
For kids with ADHD, research from the University of Illinois showed that 20 minutes of outdoor activity like biking can improve concentration levels comparably to medication.
Movement = Better Brains
Physical activity has powerful cognitive benefits. The CDC reports that kids who are physically active tend to have better grades, school attendance, memory, and classroom behavior.
Aerobic exercise, such as cycling, increases blood flow to the brain, which enhances cognitive development and helps kids retain what they learn.
How All Kids Bike Fits In
The All Kids Bike Kindergarten PE Program brings these benefits to life by putting bikes directly into schools. We provide:
- Strider balance-to-pedal bikes
- Helmets for every student
- A progressive 8-lesson curriculum aligned to national PE standards
- On-site teacher training
- Storage racks and tools for upkeep
This program levels the playing field so every child—regardless of income, location, or ability—gets to experience the joy and life skills that come with riding a bike.
Since 2018, All Kids Bike has launched over 1,700 programs in schools across all 50 states, reaching hundreds of thousands of kindergartners.
Happiness Is Just One Ride Away
In a world where childhood stress, obesity, and screen time are on the rise, bikes offer a joyful, science-backed solution to help kids thrive.
Let’s bring more smiles, movement, and confidence to our schools—one ride at a time.
Learn how you can support the movement or bring All Kids Bike to your local school at AllKidsBike.org.