PUSHBIKE RIDING EMERGES AS THERAPY FOR CHILDREN WITH HEALTH CHALLENGES

By Ahmad Erwan Othman

KUALA LUMPUR, March 24 (Bernama) -- For many children, riding a pushbike is simply a fun recreational activity. For some parents, however, the two-wheeled sport has become a form of light therapy that helps their children cope with health challenges.

From enabling children with autism to manage hyperactive energy to strengthening immunity among those with asthma, the increasingly popular activity is now seen as a gentle rehabilitation platform that supports both physical and emotional development.

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Azhari Mohd Daud, 39, enrolled his son, Samiun Mateen, eight, fondly known as Lun, in pushbike training sessions in March last year not merely to keep him occupied, but as an alternative to occupational therapy

“Children with autism, according to experts, need space to release energy as they tend to be hyperactive. On the pushbike track, Lun not only sweats but also learns essential skills such as listening and following instructions,” he told Bernama.

Unlike bicycles with training wheels, pushbikes help children develop balance naturally as their feet remain on the ground, reducing the risk of falls.

 Azhari, who lives in Sungai Besi, said the two-hour sessions held twice a week have helped improve his son’s fine and gross motor skills, while also enhancing focus, often a key challenge for children with autism.

“We are simply doing our best. Alhamdulillah, there have been many positive changes. He no longer flaps his hands and does not fall sick as often,” he said.

The benefits of the sport are also evident in the experience of Mohamad Ady Kurniawan Saprizal, 36, better known as Coach Ewan, who has witnessed improvements in his son, Mohamad Rohan Mikhael, seven.

“Rohan previously suffered from frequent nosebleeds and chronic asthma. Before this, even a short run would leave him breathless. Since taking up pushbike training, his nosebleeds have reduced and his asthma has improved.

“It seems to help build stronger immunity and stamina,” said Coach Ewan of KL Rocket Team, who trains more than 40 young riders at a parking area in KPJ Ampang.

The father of five added that Rohan’s progress has not only improved his health but also opened opportunities at a higher level, with the child finishing ninth out of 38 participants at the RSR Runbike Songkhla championship in Thailand last year.

To support each child’s development, Coach Ewan divides training sessions into beginner and expert categories, conducted on separate days.

He said the approach differs according to each child’s sensory-motor and emotional development.

Another inspiring case is that of Farisya Wafa Ab Aziz, 30, whose son, Muhammad Iyaad Farkhan Izzat Emir, seven, once suffered from severe joint pain that forced him to crawl whenever he had a fever.

“After six months of consistent training, his stamina and immunity have clearly improved. He is now able to compete among the top three in the seven-year-old category during last year’s National Sports Day,” said Farisya, who is from Hulu Langat.

Interestingly, Iyaad’s interest in the sport began with a second-hand pushbike his father found at a dumping site near his workplace.

For these parents, pushbike riding is more than preparation for transitioning to pedal bicycles. It has become a space for growth - where physical effort builds stamina, discipline is shaped through guidance, and family support nurtures confidence.

-- BERNAMA