How to Ride a Unicycle: Step-by-Step Circus Skills Guide
Learning to ride a unicycle might seem impossible at first, but with the right approach, it’s a circus skill that anyone can master. At Elevate Circus Workshops, we teach unicycling as part of our hands-on circus experiences in schools, festivals, and corporate team-building days. It’s more than just a fun trick — it improves balance, coordination, confidence, and perseverance.
Whether you’re looking to wow your friends, inspire pupils in the classroom, or energise your workplace, this guide will help you take your first steps (or pedals!) towards unicycling success.
Probably should have knee pads and hand and wrist protection here!
Why Learn to Ride a Unicycle with Elevate Circus Workshops?
A unique circus skill that always impresses
Fantastic for focus, balance, and determination
Perfect for schools, festivals, and corporate team-building events
A fun challenge for both children and adults
Alongside unicycling, our workshops also include juggling workshops, plate spinning, and other classic circus activities.
Learn to Ride a Unicycle in 4 Simple Steps
Step 1: Choose the Perfect Practice Space
Find a smooth, flat area with something sturdy to hold onto — a wall, railing, or corridor works perfectly. Having support nearby will make your first wobbly moments far easier.
Nice flat ground with handy railings!
Step 2: How to Get On the Unicycle
Place the seat securely between your legs.
Position the pedals so one is slightly forward (around the 4 o’clock mark).
Step up onto the forward pedal, using your support for balance.
As the wheel rolls back slightly, settle into the seat.
Pedal backwards a quarter turn so your feet are level.
Looks like a great start!
Step 3: Mastering Pedal Power and Balance
Keep your weight on the seat, not your legs. Start by gently rocking back and forth, then lean forward slightly and pedal slowly. Reduce your reliance on the wall or railing each time you try — little by little, your confidence will grow.
Easy does it!
Step 4: Turning, Steering, and Building Confidence
Steering is simple: point your knees and swivel your hips in the direction you want to turn. Practice short turns away from your support, then return to it until it feels natural. Soon you’ll be riding freely!
Looks easy, doesn’t it?!!
The Three Ps: Patience, Practice, and Perseverance
Unicycling takes time, and it’s normal to fall a few times before finding your rhythm. The key is to keep practising. With patience and perseverance, you’ll soon be gliding around — and once you’ve mastered one wheel, two wheels will feel boring!
Bring Circus Skills to Your School, Event, or Workplace
At Elevate Circus Workshops, we make unicycling and circus skills accessible, fun, and unforgettable. Whether it’s school circus workshops, corporate team building, or festival entertainment, our experienced facilitators create high-energy sessions tailored to your audience.
👉 Ready to add some circus magic to your next event? Contact us today to book your workshop.
