CURE NATION : Cycling can be great for staying physically active, and also a fun way to explore the world! Luckily, handcycles make this activity accessible for people who roll.

If you’ve been wanting to try handcycling, but aren’t sure what to start, you’ve come to the right place! Below we share some ways that you can find the equipment and support you need to begin handcycling.

Enjoy these great real-life handcycling photos, courtesy of the 2018 Wheels UP! Photo Contest! Meet the winners here.

The Wheelchair Sports Federation describes a handcycle as a type of human powered land vehicle powered by the arms rather than the legs, as on a bicycle. Most handcycles are tricycle in form, with two coasting rear wheels and one steerable powered front wheel.

Here are some ways you can get involved in handcycling too!

Find a Local Sports Clinic

For an opportunity to try out a handcycle, try looking up an adaptive sports clinic in your area. They are often hosted by disability-related non-profits, sports teams or rehabilitations centers. At a clinic, you’ll be able to get advice on the best equipment for you, as well as get connected to local sports programs and others that cycle. Organizations like the Triumph Foundation hold a monthly handcycling clinic in Southern California (learn more).

Brittany Perdue says “This was me in a para triathlon where I did 75 yard swim, 5 mile hand cycle, and a 2 mile racing wheelchair.”

Look Into a Loaner Program

Once you’ve figured out what kind of cycle works best for you, you can look into find a loaner program in your area. Check with a spinal cord injury rehab, or wheelchair store, or disability resource center to inquire about handcycles that can be rented or borrowed. The Internet and social media can also be a great resource.

Scott Porter says, “One of the 50K’s I did in the beginning of September (did 14 so far) This one is in Idaho.”

Join a Handcycling Group

Depending on the size of the area that you live in, there may be a handcycling group already established that you can tap into. If you’re unable to find one, try starting something to get people together.

The website/app Meetup.com is a great, free resource for gathering people for any common activity or interest. In a group setting, you can not only possibly learn from more seasoned cyclers, but you can also get many of the same benefits as peer support groups offer.

Matt Bailey says, “Tour de Nez in Truckee Ca. Criterium Race. NO I didn’t crash. What a Rush……”

Try Crowdfunding for Your Own Equipment

For many, the cost of a handcycle can be the barrier to getting involved in the sport, with handcycles ranging from around $1,500 to $4,000. Using loaners is a good option to get started, but there may come a point that you want to ride more frequently or spontaneously.

If the cost is prohibitive, you may want to consider a crowdfunding campaign to raise the funds. You may be surprised how many family, friends and people in your community would be willing to help you achieve your goal.

John Spires says “I’m out pushing enjoy the weather, When I get into my Top End Wheelchairs Racing wheelchair I feel free and get to see the sites of my home town of Sacramento. I love pushing in my racing wheelchair I feel free and get some exercise in. I also play wheelchair Basketball for the Sacramento Royals.”

Another option to raise the funds may be grants. Local businesses, like the electric company, can sometimes offer small annual grants.

Spinal cord injury non-profits also often offer small grants specifically for adaptive sports equipment. Again, use the Internet and search for options!

Russell Selkirk says “Myself coming up over a rocky rise on a trail at Mt Penn outside of Reading, PA on a ride with the Berks Area Mountain Biking Association’s adaptive ride day in partnership with Vermont Adaptive Ski & Sports”

On Your Adventures, Stay Prepared with the Cure Extra Long Catheter!

If you get into cycling, you may find yourself out and about in unfamiliar territory. There may not be an accessible bathroom (or any at all!), so come prepared with a catheter that is extra long to tackle any situation.

Makenzie Ellsworth says “This summer I had the opportunity to be in 2 bike races. I like this picture because it was right when the race was getting started. I love that feeling of anticipation when you are about to start a race.”

The Cure M14XL catheter is a great option to keep on hand. Try it for yourself on your next long road trip!It’s extra long, at 25 inches, and can help eliminate the need for extension tubing or transfers in a public restroom. Plus, Cure catheters are not made with scary chemicals like DEHP, DINP, BPA or NR-latex.

To request free samples of the Cure Medical® Extra Long Pocket Catheter or any Cure Medical catheter, contact your local distributor of quality healthcare products, or click here.

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