How can cities create inclusive cycling programmes that ensure everyone, including children, can enjoy the benefits of cycling, particularly improved health? At Velo-city 2025, Cities for Better Health joined with global partners to lead a workshop exploring practical ways to build cycling programmes from city to eye level.
Velo-city is the flagship event of Cities for Better Health’s global partner, the European Cyclists’ Federation (ECF). This year’s conference brought together more than 1,600 delegates from 60 countries.
The Cities for Better Health-led workshop on 11 June, Saddle Up to Transform Cities for Better Health and More Inclusion, brought together more than 70 participants, including speakers from BYCS, University of Southern Denmark (SDU), Gehl, C40 cities and Terreno Cycling Therapy,a plus international delegates from government, civil society, academia and the private sector.
Together, they explored how mobility, health and equity goals can align – and how cycling can serve as a bridge between them. The discussion emphasised that in addition to building cycling infrastructure, cities must acknowledge the importance of social elements as key ingredients for a cycling environment that works for all.
“We looked at how to map cycling potential, collect quality data at city level, and strengthen the human infrastructure needed to include cycling as an everyday possibility and choice – especially for children and underserved groups,” said Mads Rosenkilde, Global Project Lead, Cities for Better Health.
A report summarising the workshop session, including polling results, examples, and key resources, will be shared on 4 July.
As part of its commitment to equity, Cities for Better Health provided travel support for twelve delegates from ten countries. Their work spans grassroots initiatives, women-led programmes, and school-based cycling efforts.
“It was especially powerful to see how these programmes are using cycling to help women access not just health, but opportunity and visibility,” said Rosenkilde. “In many cities, active transport is common but not yet dignified or available to all residents.”
