Researchers: Riding a bike can offer lasting benefits

From the Detroit News:

Researchers at the University of Michigan say children with autism and Down syndrome who learn to ride two-wheeled bikes are more likely to stay physically active, leading to many health benefits.

The research, which focuses on a five-day bike camp, is funded by the U.S. Department of Education. Lead researcher Dale Ulrich said preliminary results show that learning to ride a bike also helps the children become more social, verbal and independent. Ulrich is director of U-M’s Center for Physical Activity & Health in Pediatric Disabilities.