I was a kid in the 80s, and I can see how brutal PE lessons put people off sport for life – but you can get into cycling at any age

British Cycling, alongside unnamed other organisations, is reportedly embarking on a campaign to "take the trauma out of sport," according to a recent *Cycling Weekly* piece. The initiative aims to counter the lasting negative effects of childhood physical education, particularly from the 1980s, which the article posits deterred many from lifelong athletic engagement. This effort seeks to reposition cycling as an accessible activity, regardless of age or prior sporting experience.

This initiative speaks to a broader, long-standing issue within sports participation, where early, often uninspiring, experiences can create significant barriers. For British Cycling, it's a strategic move to broaden its base beyond competitive circles, tapping into the vast demographic of individuals who might otherwise dismiss cycling as too demanding or exclusive. It acknowledges that the sport's future health relies not just on elite performance, but on fostering a welcoming environment for casual riders and late starters, directly addressing a historical disconnect.

Ultimately, British Cycling's belated recognition of PE's enduring 'trauma' is a pragmatic attempt to recruit new blood. One might wonder if the next campaign will address the trauma of clipless pedals for beginners.