Sports trust Tone Leisure is introducing a ‘no more stabilisers’ programme this week to help young children learn to ride a bicycle.

The six-week programme will use running bikes to help children aged between three and five years old develop the key skills they need to be able to cycle.

Running bikes are designed for young children to develop the key skills required for riding bicycles. The lack of mechanical parts – pedals, chain or stabilizers – means they rely on the “running action” of the rider to provide the propulsion in order to move forward.

The absence of pedals allows the rider’s feet to be in contact with the ground at all times and provides a safer riding position while developing a greater sense of balance and control than is possible on traditional bicycles with stabilisers.

The sessions will also include activities with hoops and beanbags – all focused on developing the core competencies they need to be able to cycle, such as balance, co-ordination and propulsion skills.

On the fourth week, the children will be encouraged to bring their own bicycles along, without stabilizers, and give it a go for real.

Joel Chapman, commercial director of Tone Leisure, which operates leisure facilities in the South Hams and Taunton Deane areas, said: “Next to swimming, cycling is one of the key skills children should be taught at an early age.

“While in the past children were able to spend time outside practicing riding their bicycles, the dangers and pressures associated with modern society means that this is just no longer feasible.

“For this reason, cycling is a skill that is potentially on the decrease among today’s children.”

The sessions begin this week at Wellsprings Leisure Centre, Wellington Sports Centre, Blackbrook Pavilion, Dartmouth Leisure Centre and South Dartmoor Leisure Centre. Details: www.toneleisure.com