GB Academy riders learn first aid with Red Cross as cyclists are urged to learn life-saving skills

Riders from British Cycling’s Senior Academy brushed up on their first aid skills this week as part of the British Red Cross’s Up Your Game campaign.

BikeBiz reports that the organisation recently commissioned research which revealed that while 90 per cent of cyclists think sports people have a responsibility to look after each other, 40 per cent would not have the confidence to help a fellow cyclist in a first aid emergency.

The group of 18-21 year olds underwent first aid training as part of a recent academy boot camp.

Performance Pathway manager Ian Yates explained:

“These guys, whether they’re track cyclists, road cyclists, mountain bikers or BMXers, are likely to be involved in or see a teammate go through something, and they won’t always be in an environment where there will be a first aider present – on a training ride for example.

“I think it’s critical that people know how to respond. I think there’s a certain expectation that something will happen, from a hamstring tear to an impact injury.

“Being prepared for it, and having a little bit more confidence, and a bit more knowledge to deal with it, will prepare them to step forward if someone needs help. First aid is a critical skill that goes beyond sport.”

The Red Cross is keen to emphasise that it’s not just the pros who need to be in the know and it is encouraging sports clubs, coaches and anyone who enjoys keeping fit to learn essential first aid skills.

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Joe Mulligan, head of first aid education at the British Red Cross said:

“Nothing should stand in the way of someone pursuing their much-loved sporting activity. But injuries and accidents do happen from time to time.

“We want to enable people to feel confident and willing to help anyone when faced with a first aid emergency. Learning first aid helps to increase confidence levels and we believe it’s a life skill everyone should have. 

“The benefits of first aid are well recognised and our new #UpYourGame campaign hopes to encourage an active British public to incorporate first aid learning into their sporting routine.”

The sports first aid page of the Red Cross website features video advice and a link to download a free first aid app. First aid for sports training courses are also on offer.