A Bari si pedala alla grande – SSFIn July 2026, Bari hosted the second edition of the Girls Bike Bootcamp, a five-day program dedicated to empowering young girls through cycling. Organized by Terreno Cycling Therapy ETS and supported by the City of Bari, the initiative aimed to promote autonomy, health, and sustainable mobility among girls aged 7 to 12. (borderline24.com)
Addressing the Gender Gap in Cycling
The bootcamp was conceived in response to a persistent trend: girls often abandon cycling earlier than their male peers, leading to a significant gender gap in cycling participation. This disparity not only affects recreational cycling but also influences the use of bicycles as a means of daily transportation and urban exploration. (pugliaplanet.com)
Program Highlights
Over the five days, participants engaged in a variety of activities designed to enhance their cycling skills and confidence. The curriculum included practical cycling exercises, obstacle courses tailored to individual skill levels, hands-on bike maintenance workshops, and discussions on urban mobility and the benefits of cycling for health. The program culminated in a collective creation of the “Manifesto of the Young Urban Cyclist,” where the girls shared their visions for a safer and more accessible city. (pugliaplanet.com)
Community Impact and Future Initiatives
The 2026 edition saw a significant increase in participation, with registrations doubling compared to the previous year. This surge indicates a growing interest in initiatives that promote cycling among young girls. The success of the bootcamp has inspired plans for future events, including the upcoming Women Bike Ride scheduled for September 20, 2026, in Bari. This event aims to raise awareness about road safety and advocate for infrastructure that supports cycling as a safe and convenient mode of transportation for all, particularly women and children. (borderline24.com)
The Girls Bike Bootcamp exemplifies a successful model for encouraging young girls to embrace cycling, fostering a sense of independence, health, and environmental responsibility. By addressing the gender gap in cycling, such initiatives contribute to building more inclusive and sustainable urban communities.