Do you remember the carefree feeling of riding your bike as a child? That sense of freedom and joy that comes with the wind in your hair and the pedals under your feet? Well, it turns out that cycling isn't just for kids anymore! It's a fantastic way to stay active and healthy and can bring back those childhood memories all over again. However, like any form of exercise, it's important to take care of your body, especially your spine. So, this week we've put together 6 top tips for keeping your spine happy and strong while cycling:
1. Find the right bike for you
Like a good pair of shoes, a bike that fits your height and build will help your posture and prevent discomfort. If you want to go the extra step, investing in a bike fit by a trained professional can make a world of difference in reducing aches and pains and making your cycling experience even more enjoyable.
2. Brace your core and power from the legs
This may sound obvious as the momentum to move you forward comes from your legs, but if you remain conscious about activating your leg muscles and core during your ride, it will help you maintain good posture and protect your lower back.
3. Take regular breaks
If you're riding for more than 30 minutes, be sure to move around or take regular breaks. Even lifting and stretching one arm behind you can help release tension in the upper body, or periodically sitting up on the saddle can help reduce the stress on your lower back.
4. Stay hydrated
It can be easy to forget to drink water on the bike because the cool breeze keeps your temperature down and reduces the sweat, but keeping a bottle to hand to sip away during your ride is key. Drinking regularly will help to keep you energised during the ride and assist with your recovery after.
5. Cool down and stretch
At the end of your cycle, take some time to cool down and stretch. Focusing on your hip flexors and chest muscles, which can become tight from sitting and flexing forward on the bike, will help to open your body up and reduce tension.
6. Have fun!
Most importantly, remember to have fun! Cycling can be a serious sport, but it can also be a chance to let go and embrace your inner child. So go ahead and pedal super-fast, ride through puddles, and breathe in that fresh air!
By following these tips, you can take care of your spine while cycling, and the bonus is, if outdoor cycling is not for you, they can be applied whilst using your indoor bike.
We would love to hear about your cycling experiences, so please share them with us during your next visit! And if you still need to book an appointment, feel free to contact us to schedule your chiropractic visit. We are here to support your cycling adventures and keep your body working at its best!
The content of this blog is for educational purposes and is not intended to offer personal medical advice. You should seek the advice of a qualified healthcare provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition. Never disregard professional medical advice or delay in seeking it because of something you have read in this blog.
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