THOMASTON — Thanks to a generous grant from the Georges River Education Foundation, the Oceanside Middle School Library Read and Ride program is now underway.

The library has two FitDesks and a recumbent bicycle specifically designated for combining exercise with reading.

The goal of this program is to provide additional incentive for students to use the library and expend some energy as they enjoy a good book.

“It’s a good way to get your exercise, like, if you don’t have gym, it’s a good way to get your wiggles out before your other classes, ”said sixth grader Aiden Willis, in a news release. 

“It makes reading more fun,” said classmate Rebecca Spearing

“It is fun,” said another classmate, Campbell McMahon. “It makes me get less distracted. It helps me to focus more on the book.”

Research shows that physical activity improves academic performance including retaining information and concentration, and the bicycles provide fun and motivation for both passionate and reluctant readers, according to the release.