In recent years, it has been said that children have fewer opportunities to experience diverse physical movements due to reduced outdoor play and changing lifestyles.

In response, PIST6 PUMPTRACK CHIBA (hereinafter PPC), located within the lawn area of Chiba Park, held a two-day bicycle event titled 'Kids Step-Up Challenge★' on June 13 (Sat) and 14 (Sun), 2026. The event, consisting of a 'Flat Course Edition' and a 'Track Edition,' aims to develop physical abilities through play.

This event is held once or twice a month. It systematically organizes the skills required for pump track riding, allowing participants to assess their current level and identify future goals.

Children used a 'Step-Up Challenge Sheet' summarizing essential skills and challenges for pump track riding, completing tasks in a stamp rally format. Through this process, they developed balance, body control, and core strength.

[JPF News Page: https://www.jpf.co.jp/jpfnews/step-up-challenge_1/]

Developing Motor Skills Through Play

A pump track is a looped course featuring consecutive bumps and curves that allow riders to accelerate through an up-and-down body motion called 'pumping.'

While riding, participants must continuously balance their entire body while operating the bicycle, naturally developing core strength, balance, rhythm, and physical coordination—fundamental motor skills (coordination ability) crucial during childhood development.

Coordination ability refers to 'the power to control one’s body as intended,' forming the foundation for all physical activities such as running, jumping, throwing, and changing direction. Enhancing this ability benefits not only cycling but also various other sports like baseball, soccer, and basketball.

The 'Step-Up Challenge★' enables children to progressively master these movements, allowing them to improve their physical abilities while having fun.

The Flat Course Edition (held on June 13) focuses on learning basic bicycle handling on flat ground, aiming to master foundational techniques necessary for pump track riding, such as standing pedaling and body pumping motions.

Participants who complete the Flat Course Edition can advance to the Track Edition (held on June 14). In this edition, they apply the skills learned on the actual pump track, aiming to master riding techniques such as pumping.

※Both the Flat and Track editions require prior reservation.

Children observing an instructor's demonstration during the Track Edition of the Step-Up Challenge★

Completing tasks and collecting stamps

Participants receive a stamp for each completed task. The visible progress enhances their sense of achievement and motivates them to advance to the next step—an essential feature of this event.

Immediate Full Capacity: A Huge Success

The Step-Up Challenge★ is a popular recurring event held once or twice a month. Reservations typically fill up immediately upon opening, with many sessions reaching full capacity. This event also received numerous applications, reaffirming the high interest from children and parents alike.

While this event targeted elementary school students, PPC also offers a 'Adult Step-Up Challenge★' with Flat and Track editions for middle school students and above!

We welcome your participation.

In addition to the weekend 'Step-Up Challenge★,' PPC also runs 'After-School Pump Track!' on weekdays. This is a continuous participation program combining level-based instruction by instructors with course access. It supports skill development tailored to each individual’s growth stage, from beginners to intermediate riders.

Participants are currently being recruited, offering an environment where children—whether first-time riders or those aiming to improve—can grow continuously.

Learn more about 'After-School Pump Track!' https://ppc.pist6.com/news/1125/

A Place for Challenge and Connection

PPC regularly attracts many children and parents who enjoy cycling. Some users visit multiple times a week, demonstrating high repeat visitation—a key feature of the facility. During this event, children enthusiastically tackled challenges suited to their levels, collecting stamps while improving their skills. Many continued practicing on the course even after the event ended, indicating an environment that inspires self-driven challenges. PPC aims to serve as a 'third place'—distinct from school and extracurricular activities—where children can gather safely and experience continuous growth and achievement.

Program Overview

Program Name: Kids Step-Up Challenge★ Dates: June 13 (Sat) – 14 (Sun), 2026 Venue: PIST6 PUMPTRACK CHIBA (Chiba Park Lawn Area) Organizer: JPF Corporation Website: https://ppc.pist6.com/ Instagram: https://x.gd/Txs4i

[About JPF Corporation]

Founded in 1950, JPF invented the slit camera for determining finish order in public racing events such as keirin and boat racing. Since then, the company has supported judging operations at numerous public racecourses. Since 2010, it has expanded into total management services for public racecourses, providing operational support nationwide. Guided by the mission to 'remain a company that provides opportunities for human growth,' JPF promotes diverse initiatives including regional revitalization and the promotion of cycle sports.

Company Name: JPF Corporation Headquarters: Chiyoda-ku, Tokyo Representative: President & CEO Shuntaro Watanabe URL: https://www.jpf.co.jp/

[About PIST6 PUMPTRACK CHIBA]

PIST6 PUMPTRACK CHIBA (PPC) is a pump track facility operated by JPF Corporation (Headquarters: Chiyoda-ku, Tokyo; President & CEO: Shuntaro Watanabe). Popular as a hub for wheel sports, it welcomes users of all ages—from children to adults. The facility features an internationally standardized course manufactured by Swiss company VELOSOLUTIONS. It regularly hosts beginner-friendly experiences, schools, and various events, making it enjoyable for riders of all skill levels. Explore other PPC events here: https://ppc.pist6.com/school-event/

[About Pump Tracks]

A pump track is a looped course with continuous undulating bumps and curves. Designed for wheel sports such as bicycles and skateboards, it enables acceleration through an up-and-down body motion called 'pumping.' Originating in Europe, pump tracks are increasingly installed in parks as health-promoting facilities where people of all ages—from children to seniors—can enjoy physical activity. As a fun way to train balance and core strength, pump tracks are popular recreational activities accessible regardless of age or athletic experience.

FACT BOX

  • Source: PR TIMES
  • Category: Event