Pedaling Minds

Who We Are

Our Mission: To help every person have fun riding a bicycle with control and confidence. The Pedaling Minds approach focuses on developing skills that help kids and even adults overcome all manner of challenges, both on and off a bike. We empower riders by meeting them at their individual development levels. Our unique approach includes dedicated coaches whose growth is intertwined with that of our participants, creating a dynamic and supportive learning environment.

Our Vision: To ensure that all people can learn or teach others to ride a bike safely and with confidence.

Our Why: Riding bicycles has a positive impact on physical and mental health. 

The History and Philosophy

Pedaling Minds first started in 2014 as Mike Friedman’s part-time passion project and was converted to a nonprofit 501(c)(3) organization in 2017. To date, over 2,000 children have learned how to ride a bike and have improved bicycling skills and safety through the Pedaling Minds method. Over time, Pedaling Minds has grown to offer experiential learning programs in various layouts, from weeklong summer programs to one-day clinics. Skill lessons and drills are tailored to the level of the student. Mike has also recruited other prominent coaches to the programs, both professional cyclists and alumni parents who share his passion.

What We Do:

• Provide engaging, interactive programs for kids, ensuring that each rider, no matter their skill level, develops at their own pace.
• Offer School Days Off camps, after-school programs, and private lessons for both kids and adults.

• Create a safe, supportive environment where students can gain life skills through riding, including focus, determination, and a growth mindset.

• Use STEM activities to explore the power of bicycles.

• Provide youth with a unique, paid work experience where they can grow alongside our riders and learn lifelong skills to help them in future careers.

Join us in making a lasting impact—support Pedaling Minds today!

Our Impact

• 94% of parents have witnessed a boost in their child’s confidence
• 97% of parents noticed improved bike control
• 89% of parents report kids achieving or surpassing their goals
• 80% of parents see their kids embracing our 3 P’s approach of practice, patience, and perseverance in areas beyond cycling.
• We've taught over 400 riders in 2024.
• 25% of our riders have come to our summer camps for free or participated in one-day clinics.

Testimonials:

"It may sound grandiose to say my daughter's experience with Pedaling Minds has been life-changing, but it's true. She participated in a week-long bike camp (half days) and was extremely nervous and reluctant to ride a bike prior to starting. On day 1 she struggled really badly so I called Mike for help, and thanks to his support, we got her back on track for day 2. By the end of the week, she was riding confidently without any input and since then I haven't been able to get her OFF her bike! She rides it every day and has found so much joy in it. I credit Pedaling Minds with helping her to overcome her fears. They've ignited a real love of cycling in her that I hope will last for a lifetime. THANK YOU!" -R.R. August 2024

"Mike and his coaches are great with the kids - encouraging but never intimidating. They recognize that each kid is an individual, and give each kid the room they need to grow at their own pace.  Mike's credentials as a world-class cyclist are impressive, but I think he has really found his calling as a teacher and coach!" -D.R. July 2024

“My 6 yr old, who had never been a bike rider (either on a balance bike or a bike w/ training wheels), came to love and feel confident on the bike (without training wheels) after just the first half day session!  By the end of the week he had ridden over 25 miles! I was extremely impressed with the program and strongly recommend it to anyone with a child who is hesitant to pedal.  More than just learning to ride, the program also helps build self-esteem, persistence, and resilience.  Mike and his team were wonderful coaches who offered an ideal balance of setting appropriate challenges and expectations, flexibility, patience, and honoring a child's own pace in a way that facilitated their building self-confidence that extends beyond just learning to ride a bike.” - J.M. June 2024

Your Donation

Your generous support helps us provide accessible bike education and opportunities for all, including scholarships for families in need. With your help, we offer hands-on learning experiences that teach more than just how to ride a bike; we teach perseverance, resilience, and how to navigate life's obstacles. 

By donating to Pedaling Minds, you're helping us continue to reach more children and communities, giving them the skills and confidence to succeed—not just on a bike, but in life. Every donation makes a difference in shaping the future of our young riders.