I Challenge Myself's (ICM) mission is to help young people lead healthier and more productive lives through endurance fitness challenges and leadership development. Through the Cycling Smarts and College Awareness Bike Tour programs I Challenge Myself is working to curb the growing childhood obesity epidemic, to more strongly connect students to their peers, teachers and school and to increase students' readiness to attend college and the workforce.
Cycling Smarts provides opportunities for high school students to increase their physical activity and fitness levels through long-distance cycling (including a 1-day 100-mile bike ride), combined with cross training and nutrition workshops. Cycling Smarts is typically offered 4 times per week at each participating public high school (4 in the 2010-2011 SY) and integrated with the school's physical education classes. During warm months, weekend bike rides that explore a variety of neighborhoods are added to the curriculum.
College Awareness Bike Tour is a 10-day summer program structured in two parts: (1) A 5-day preparation session in NYC consisting of training rides and education about the college admissions process; and (2) a 5-day bike tour to colleges in New York State. Visits consist of a guided campus tour and meetings with financial aid and admissions counselors.
From evaluations students have reported significant improvement across a wide range of areas: greater physical fitness, the ability to push themselves more, nutritional knowledge and dietary habits, heightened respect for other people and a better ability to focus in class. These changes are noted and commented upon by their Cycling Smarts teachers as well.
