Unicycling

Cory the Clown, an avid unicyclist, explains the history of the one-wheeled cycle and visits a national unicycling convention.

Unicycling is a fun sport. Always wear elbow pads, knee pads, and a helmet when participating in any cycling sport.

Unicycles were discovered when penny farthings (old fashioned bicycles) came to a sudden stop. The rear wheel would lift off the ground leaving the rider on one wheel. Riders discovered that if they removed the rear wheel, they had a unicycle. "Uni" means one. Unicycles come in many sizes, from big wheels to wheels smaller than a dime. The larger the wheel, the more distance covered per pedal.

It takes the average person who rides a bicycle about 10 hours, and the help of a friend to lean on, to learn how to ride a unicycle.

Make sure that the pedals and seat are the right distance for your height. When you are sitting on the seat, your leg should be almost fully extended to the bottom pedal.

Start with a brick or curb behind the wheel so that the unicycle will be stopped and can't slip back. When you hop on, sit up as straight as possible. Both pedals should be in the middle, not up and down. Find your center of gravity and start to pedal forward. Have someone stand alongside of you to hold for balance. Happy cycling!

The Unicycling Society of America has thousands of members from around the world. They have an annual unicycling meet where riders compete and have a good time with unicycling. If you would like more information, contact them at: ecstacy.winternet.com/usa.