Bicycle Training Class Attendees: We had recently decided to take up cycling as a family fitness activity and were planning to purchase a bike for our five-year-old daughter so she could ride along with us. We had heard about the technique of starting a child off without pedals so they could learn to balance, but didn't have any details on how to approach the lessons in a logical fashion. That was when we saw your promotion and "demo day" at the Greystone YMCA and felt the class would be perfect for Amber. We honestly didn't expect her to learn how to ride in only four weeks, but we hoped it would give her a solid foundation for us to continue working with her on our own. Amber was very excited about getting her first bike and learning to ride. One of the best things about the “No Training Wheels” class was the way you took her through a series of small gradual steps that kept her confidence high and helped her to develop riding skills in a very logical order. After the first class she told us that riding her bike was her "favorite thing to do". She was never afraid of riding and wanted to practice the drills from the class every day when weather permitted even though we only have a gravel drive and don't have a good place for her to ride at home. We really appreciated the family atmosphere of the class, and Amber loved having all of "The Bits" kids that she had read about in the "Learning to Ride with the Bits" book helping the students learn how to ride. Whenever we talked with friends or family about the Amber learning to ride, she loved to tell the story from the book and to talk about her experiences in the class. I was very surprised after only two weeks when we took Amber to practice riding at Heardmont Park and she was able to balance and coast with her feet lifted for up to 50 yards and then make a 180-degree turn and head back toward us - all without once putting her feet down or losing her balance. The next week in class she got her pedals put on her bike and she was so excited she couldn't wait to tell everyone. Before we signed Amber up for the “No Training Wheels” class she had never even sat on a bicycle. In only three short weeks she went from no cycling experience to being able to ride on her bike with pedals and without ever having used training wheels. We're very excited about being able to go riding as a family now, and we really appreciate the Greystone YMCA hosting the “No Training Wheels” riding class. It has made a huge impact on our family and we're looking forward to years of cycling together. Thank You! Daniel, Betsey, and Amber

My son, Will, is eight year old and had not interest in riding his bicycle without training wheels. I saw the poster for the “No Training Wheels” classes and was able to talk to Mr. Nix about Will. Will loves to read so I left the book out for him to “discover” and he read it at least 6 times the first day. The next day, he informed me I was supposed to take off his pedals, chain, etc.. I took off just the pedals. He then informed me that afternoon that he was ready to put them back on! I was surprised by his determination! I replaced the pedals, he hopped on and rode off…….. never slowing down or looking back. My niece and I were jumping up and down and laughing but he only ignored us because he expected to be able to ride all along because “ the book said so!”

Will loves to read and follow directions that are written. He is a visual leaner due to his autism. This book was just what he needed to get him going. He rides his bike every day now and loves it!

Thank you for coming to my gym so I was able to hear about your book. Good luck and God bless you and your family.


Sharon N.
Mom of Will N.

Dear Nix Family,

We loved the No Training Wheels class. Kirsten and Peyton looked forward to coming each Friday. My hopes were that both of my children would come away with no fear of two wheels (the idea of two wheels was not something they did not even want to talk about). At the beginning of the third class, my daughter Kirsten was riding with a huge smile on her face. She was so proud. I know Peyton is not far behind; she wants to do everything her big sister does.

Thank you Nix Family, we really enjoyed your class and will recommend it to my friends.

Sincerely,
Wendy H.

Dear YMCA,

I wanted to take this opportunity to tell you what an exciting time the past four weeks have been regarding the “No Training Wheels “program. As a YMCA member, I thank you so much for giving Harvey and his family the opportunity to use the facility.

My son Bryce is five years old. He had been struggling to find confidence in riding his bike without training wheels. As parents, we were trying to teach Bryce the “old school way” of riding a bike. Apparently it was not working. I met Harvey at the YMCA one day and noticed the book. After speaking with Harvey for a few minutes, I knew this program would be just what Bryce needed. The book was a great prerequisite for the class. It really prepared Bryce to know what was expected of him. Bryce thought it was really cool to meet the “real” Big Bit, Little Bit, and Tiny Bit from the book.

I had to write this letter today because today was very special. I got to watch my son ride a bike without training wheel with success. What a smile of mastery he had on his face. As a parent, those moments are to treasure thanks to the help of Harvey and his program. What is really amazing is that 4 weeks ago my son started out on training wheels with no confidence. Now he is riding successfully and has the self assurance to ride in the neighborhood with his friends. Additionally, I can’t say enough about Harvey’s family. Harvey’s wife and kids were so helpful and kind to the students.

I would recommend this program to any one who has a child and wants them to learn to ride a bike with true success in a minimal amount of time. I wish Harvey and his family the best in their future endeavors with this incredible and well needed program.

Sincerely,

Tracy L.