CYCLING & AuDHD — BALANCE, FREEDOM, YOUR WAY
Being both autistic and ADHD can mean living with needs that sometimes appear to pull in opposite directions — novelty and predictability, stimulation and sensory protection, spontaneity and preparation, movement and recovery.
This tightly packed guide explores how cycling can be adapted to make room for both sides of the AuDHD experience. It covers movement and focus, sensory processing, emotional regulation, interoception, executive function, hyperfocus, time blindness, changing plans, communication, overload and burnout.
Practical strategies include controlled novelty, a low-demand starting sequence, external stopping cues, backup plans for unexpected change and planning recovery as part of the ride.
Accessibility is built throughout, including e-bikes, tricycles, recumbent cycles, handcycles, indoor cycling and chair/seated pedalling, as well as physical, financial and environmental barriers.
A full AuDHD cycling planner helps readers identify predictable routes, helpful novelty, sensory needs, barriers to starting, overload signs, stopping cues and recovery needs. The guide also includes safety guidance and evidence sources.
It finishes with a completely individual message from Maggie about not having to choose between autistic and ADHD needs — and creating a version of cycling where both can belong.
Space to Breathe Therapy
