Biking program builds health, empowerment, and community
Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Vermont (Blue Cross VT) and Terry Bicycles are welcoming the return of the Wellness Revolution Cycling Program in Rutland for the 2024 season. This free program serves those who identify as women to help them break through barriers that keep them from getting out on their bikes. This program builds community with other women in the pursuit of a healthy activity.
The Wellness Revolution program starts in August 2024 in Rutland. Vermont offers many opportunities for riding across the state on bike paths, around town, on mountain bike trails, and on rural gravel roads. Cycling provides accessible transportation, mental and physical wellness, and connection to our environment.
“It’s exciting to see women come together to take risks and become more confident with their cycling skills,” said Shelley Lutz, Wellness Revolution coordinator. “Wellness Revolution provides a supportive and community-building experience that continues even after the program ends. It’s empowering and energizing, and I’m looking forward to Wellness Revolution 2024!”
No matter what skill level, type of bike you have, or how long it’s been since you’ve ridden, Wellness Revolution is helping to build cycling into Vermonters’ lives. Together, the group takes participants through all aspects of cycling, from how to handle basic bike maintenance and repairs, to conditioning and mindfulness, and getting out on a bike with confidence with weekly rides tailored to the different fitness levels within the group. Registration for the spring Wellness Revolution programs is now open: Wellness Revolution Rutland Registration 2024.
“It can be hard to find the motivation to get out and ride by ourselves, especially when we haven’t ridden for a while. We can feel a little shaky about taking that first ride of the season (or the decade), or are worried about riding alone,” said Megan Peek, director of Community Relations and Health Promotion at Blue Cross Vermont. “Wellness Revolution engages women who are at all different skill levels on a bike and builds a supportive community around a healthy summer activity.”
“We believe so strongly that cycling is a wonderful way to improve a woman’s physical, mental and emotional health,” said Paula Dyba, executive vice president of Terry Bicycles. “We love the partnership with Blue Cross VT because it creates a safe, secure way to get women riding again — or for the first time. The joy and camaraderie is a sight to behold.”
These programs often fill up fast and are completely free to participants. Once registered, Wellness Revolution Rutland Registration 2024 participants will receive detailed information about the program schedule (Aug. 1-24).
Beyond great exercise and the support that comes from a group activity, there will be small incentives for participants to reach their goals throughout the program, including a free helmet to kick off the first ride.
“This is truly a program for everyone to remember the exhilaration and freedom of biking, and to build some accountability to get outside for a ride,” said Peek.