Jackson Free Press

Instead of your kids watching television and playing videos games Saturday mornings, take them to be a part of the Youth Cycling Group. Personal trainer Tammy Thomas of MS Fitness Pro will lead the group every Saturday beginning Sept. 3 to teach the proper and safe way to ride a bike. Kids ages 9 to 16, grouped according to ability, will learn the basics of bicycling etiquette, starting and stopping techniques and hand turn signals.

The group's first goal is to ride five miles on the Ridgeland Multi-Use Trail, a wide paved path that winds through Ridgeland and is centered on the Natchez Trace. The piece the bikers will travel goes from Harbor Drive to Rice Road to Highland Colony Parkway, a distance of almost seven miles.

Thomas, who emphasizes the importance of safety, will teach the kids to ride on the road for at least 20 miles. Your kids will be involved in a sport that is good for the body, be part of a serene and aesthetic experience, and learn how to work within a group. Biking also relieves the stress of a child's busy life of academia and other activities.

Meet Thomas at 9 a.m. in the parking lot of the old Mississippi Craft Center (950 Rice Road, Ridgeland), located just off the Natchez Trace Parkway.

Be sure your child is equipped with a bike, helmet, gloves and water. Thomas will inspect the bike to ensure it is safe. If your child is young, Thomas highly recommends that you stay to help. Also, adult chaperones are welcome to join the fun.

For more information on this free event, contact Tammy Thomas at 601-559-5577.