Freek works with both rehabilitation and long-term care. One of the rehab centers he frequently visits is De Molenhoeve. “Across the whole organization, we make regular use of Bike Labyrinth. Many locations have a system. De Molenhoeve didn’t yet have one of its own, but when another location closed, we were able to take over their system.” That’s how Bike Labyrinth ended up in De Molenhoeve’s rehabilitation unit. “By now, virtual cycling has become an essential part of our rehab plan,” says Freek.

Focus on movement

The entire organization fosters collaboration between care staff and physiotherapists. “All of our locations are focused on offering as many opportunities for movement as possible. Even when the physiotherapists aren’t around, the care staff ensures that clients remain active. This really supports the rehabilitation process.”

Bike Labyrinth plays a big role in that. “The system is located in our exercise room, which is open to everyone. Clients can hop on the bike themselves and start moving.”

Cycling to your old vacation home

Family members are also closely involved in the process. One woman used to vacation in Luxembourg with her family but hadn’t been able to return for years. Her family recorded their old vacation route by car. Later, while cycling a route through Luxembourg on Bike Labyrinth, they realized it matched the exact road to their vacation home. “Now she can regularly enjoy a virtual visit to Luxembourg.”

Cycling as a social activity

In addition to the main bike connected to Bike Labyrinth, there are two extra bikes positioned around the screen. This turns cycling into a group activity - and means they actually cycle even more than the system tracks. “I’ll often walk into the exercise room and find clients already cycling together. One of them suggests going for a ride, and the others join in to watch and pedal along.” Together, the clients decide which route to take and which turns to make. “That creates a social element and fun interactions that wouldn’t otherwise happen.”