Study shows bike riding in middle school may boost kids’ mental health

Is it time to add bike riding to physical education classes for middle schoolers? According to a new study, it could have benefits beyond just the physical — researchers found that cycling could help boost mental health in adolescents.

“We saw that there were mental health benefits across the entire population,” said Sean Wilson, a researcher at Loma Linda University School of Medicine and the study’s senior author. “The main thing would be more of a positive outlook on life.”

The study followed 1,200 students ages 11 to 14 who enrolled in a middle school program called Ride for Focus that provided cycling classes at least three days a week for a minimum of six weeks. In the classes, the kids learned cycling safety and riding skills — while also getting good exercise and just having fun. Before and after the program, they completed screening questionnaires that asked them about their mental and social well-being.

“We know from the huge body of research that physical activities like cycling can benefit the body. But there’s also a huge amount of growing research showing how it benefits the mind and social relationships as well,” said Esther Walker, the senior research program manager for Outride, the nonprofit program that administers Ride for Focus in schools. “Having that positive perception of riding and experiencing it with their peers in this really safe setting is really important.”

Walker also said middle school is the ideal time for a program like this because it’s when kids start to experience more stress, social pressure, and anxiety.

“It’s a really important time to provide additional outlets to explore not only physical activity, but also the freedom and relief that can come with going out for a bike ride during the day,” she explained.

Researchers involved in the study noted it’s important to keep in mind that while exercise has well-documented positive effects on mental health, it’s not a cure-all. Some students still require and benefit from other treatments, including talk therapy and medication. And other healthy habits, like getting good sleep and limiting screen time, can also help boost mental health at all ages.

A version of this post was published in October 2023. It has been updated.