Britain is the number one nation in the world when it comes to track racing. Thanks to the overwhelming Olympic success of Sir Chris Hoy and co the sport has become very prominent, and appealing to budding young athletes.

Track is bike racing in a very pure form. The bikes used have no brakes, no gears and no suspension, and with no hills or wind to contend with you don’t need a fantastic bike to get started either.

On the downside there are only a few tracks around the country – but of those many have their own rental bikes and offer very low cost introductory courses. The thrill of riding around a banked track with no brakes is second to none, and often hooks people for life. The physical benefits are of athletic proportions, and the discipline learning curve is as steep as the banking.

The occasional crash and burn is inevitable.

If you live near to a track it’s not hugely expensive, and bikes can be cheap for starters.

They will have to get to and from the track, with bikes, maybe once a week.

• Pro’s – a controlled environment, a level playing field and great for teaching discipline and promoting fitness.

• Con’s – there are not a whole lot of tracks around the country, and to be competitive they will also need to train on the road.