As cycling season gets underway, more people are getting back out on the roads and trails, whether that’s for commuting, leisure rides, charity events or preparing for longer cycling tours.
Cycling is brilliant for fitness and mental wellbeing, but spending hours in the same riding position can also place strain on the body if strength, mobility and recovery are overlooked.
Common issues we see include:
Why cyclists often develop aches and pains
Because cycling is repetitive, certain areas of the body can become overloaded over time, particularly if there are muscle imbalances or reduced mobility.
Common issues we see include:
• Neck and upper back stiffness
• Lower back pain
• Hip tightness
• Knee discomfort
• Calf or Achilles tightness
• Shoulder and wrist discomfort
Many cyclists assume these problems are simply “part of riding”, but often they can be improved with the right support and exercise approach.
How physiotherapy can help
Whether you cycle for enjoyment or you’re training for an endurance event, physiotherapy can help you ride more comfortably and recover more effectively.
Treatment and tailored exercise programmes can help with:
• Injury prevention
• Improving mobility and posture
• Building core and pelvic stability
• Recovery after longer rides
• Strength and conditioning support
• Reducing recurring aches and pains
The stronger and more balanced your body is off the bike, the better you tend to perform on it.
Why Pilates works so well for cyclists
Cyclists are often strong in some muscle groups but tight or restricted in others.
Pilates-based exercises are excellent for improving:
• Core control and posture
• Hip mobility and strength
• Spinal flexibility
• Balance and stability
• Muscle control and movement efficiency
Catherine has put together some exercises which help support the body without adding unnecessary strain to already tired muscles. Watch here
Don’t wait until pain stops you from riding
Small aches and tightness can quickly become bigger issues if ignored.
Whether you’re preparing for a cycling challenge or simply want to enjoy riding more comfortably this summer, early support can make a huge difference.
If you’d like advice on cycling-related pain, recovery or injury prevention, our team would be happy to help.
Book a consultation with our team:
https://altrinchamphysio.co.uk/contact/
Or explore how we can help:
https://altrinchamphysio.co.uk/what-we-treat/
