The summer may be nearing an end and for many of that will mean no more casual cycling. However since the exploits of the British cycling teams from the 2008 Olympics through to the 2013 Tour De France and ever since, cycling has been a growing sport in the UK. Numbers have grown a staggering amount and this means more and more of us are mountain biking, commuting to work on a bike, leisure riding and even road racing.
As a leading Chiropractic Clinic near Southend a great many of my patients are cyclists and I often advise them on how to keep their back safe and their body in good condition.
All about posture and precautions
Warm up and cool down – Like with any exercise activity this is important. Stretching, warming up and cooling down are one of the most important things you can do to avoid injuries. Without stretching your body will be stiff and more likely you’ll pull a muscle or hurt yourself.
Get your posture on right -Don’t over extend reaching for the handlebars. Take advice from cycling experts on the perfect riding posture. Essentially make sure you are not putting any unnecessary strain on your body. Make sure you can stand easily as well.
Change your position – Try standing up at some stages and sitting down at others. It is important not to be hunched over your bike for too long a period of time.
Keep your tyres pumped up – It may sound simple but it is remarkably effective. A tyre with poor air pressure will not only make your cycling more difficult and heavy but you will be putting extra strain on your body. That extra strain will increase the likelihood of injuries and that can all be avoided by putting air in your tyres.
Invest in good suspension – Whether you are a road cyclist or a mountain biker you will need good suspension. The type of suspension will vary depending on what you are doing and the surface you are riding on but ultimately you need to invest in good suspension. Stop your body and your back taking all the shocks.
Strengthen your back – If you do this your back will be a stronger part of your body and will cope with the pressures cycling exerts on it.
If you are planning on cycling a lot or you have any sporting injuries or other concerns please get in touch with us as we offer a lot of help and advice to get you back up and running as soon as possible. You can contact us at Cliffs Chiropractor Southend on 01702 430430.