Study Finds Parental driving Habits, Not E-bikes, are Key Factor in Declining Youth Exercise
Recent research from TU Delft challenges the notion that the rise of e-bikes and fatbikes are primarily responsible for decreasing physical activity among young people. While data confirms a decline in exercise between 2018 and 2023, particularly within the 6-11 and 15-17 age groups, the study points to a shift in transportation patterns driven by parental choices as the main culprit.
The research, which measured exercise achieved during travel – excluding dedicated sports or gym time – revealed that e-bike users actually travel longer distances than those on traditional bicycles. On average, young people riding e-bikes cover 13.4 kilometers daily, compared to 9.3 kilometers for traditional cyclists. Surprisingly, e-bike users also spend a few more minutes exercising and are more likely to meet recommended physical activity guidelines.
This contradicts earlier suggestions, including those from the RIVM, that faster travel times afforded by e-bikes contribute to reduced exercise.
Instead, the TU Delft study highlights the increased reliance on car transportation provided by parents. Children driven by their parents travel an average of 15 kilometers per day – only 1.6 kilometers further than those using e-bikes. Researchers attribute this trend to a more protective parenting style, with concerns about safety and a preference for direct transportation leading to fewer autonomous cycling trips.
The findings come in response to recent calls from sports doctors for age restrictions on two-wheeled vehicles, citing concerns about both reduced exercise and increased accident risk. Though, the TU Delft researchers argue that banning or limiting access to e-bikes is a premature response, given the data indicating parental driving habits are a more significant factor in declining youth physical activity.
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