Now that the warmer weather and longer days are here – we will begin to see more and more cyclists out on the roads and trails.
If you happen to be one of those cyclists, chances are you have already had your bicycle in for a spring “tune-up”. It amazes me to see cyclists of all levels spend thousands of dollars on new and better equipment in order to help them ride faster and with less effort. While I am all for utilizing some the latest and greatest technological advances in equipment, I still believe you get the biggest “bang for your buck” by investing in a healthier you!
Remember you are the bike’s engine, and that engine is the most important part of making that bicycle ride well. Even the lightest bicycle in the world can’t make it over your favorite climb by itself. This reminds me of the story about 3-time Tour de France winner Greg LeMond… he once won a professional bike race on a cheap bike he borrowed from a spectator. He beat the other professional riders that were riding bikes worth several thousand dollars. Obviously- he had the best “engine” that day.
If your goals are to ride further, faster, or just more comfortably, then consider investing your time, money and energy in:
1 – Getting your bike professionally fitted. Even a several thousand dollar bike won’t work well if it is not properly aligned.
2 – Getting your body professionally “aligned”. Chiropractors are experts in Spinal Alignment. Most professional cycling teams have a Chiropractor on staff.
3 – Training your body properly. It’s important to follow a sensible and progressive training plan.
4 – Developing good postural strength and endurance through a complete core strengthening program. Cycling requires strength and endurance of the spinal postural muscles including lower back and neck muscles. These are often limiting factors to many cyclists. Many of my patients have mentioned that their back and neck muscles often “give out” before their legs do.
5 – Invest some time in proper recovery between training sessions. This may include some or all of the following: proper pre- and post-nutrition, foam rolling, stretching, icing if necessary, regular Active Release Techniques, and professional therapeutic massage.
Remember – race car drivers invest more time and money in their car’s engine than on any other part of their car. Now is the perfect time to invest in your bicycle’s engine… YOU!
And please….. Remember to ALWAYS wear a helmet!
If you have any questions on how we can help you “tune up your engine” feel free to contact me at:
Happy and Healthy Riding!
Happy and Healthy Riding!