Yoga for Cyclists
After a long day in the saddle, do you not so much climb off your bike as crawl off it? Do you collapse into a hot bath and have a recovery drink? Both are helpful, but one of the best things you can do for your aching body is yoga. Sessions don’t have to involve tying yourself in knots, but some well-targeted yoga stretches after a ride can definitely untie the knots in your muscles. And on the Tourdeboland you can join us in the afternoon for a short yoga lesson designed specifically for cyclists. Sessions will be led by Ellen Crabtree, Certified Iyengar Yoga Teacher.
Iyengar yoga
What is Iyengar yoga? Iyengar yoga is a popular style of yoga based on the teachings of B.K.S. Iyengar. The method emphasises precision and alignment. Iyengar yoga teachers understand the practical and therapeutic effects of the various yoga poses. All certified teachers undergo a three-year training programme followed by continuous learning with more senior teachers, giving them a high level of technical understanding and teaching experience. Have you ever felt tired and unfocused? This may be exactly what you need…
How does yoga help cyclists?
Cycling stresses particular muscle groups. The quadriceps are responsible for pushing the pedal down, providing the most power. The hamstrings aid in pulling the pedal up, with the calf muscles engaged in the push and pull of the pedal. The gluteal muscles activate during uphill rides, and the core, arm, and shoulder muscles support and stabilise during rides.
Long rides often cause muscle tightness, limited flexibility, and lower back strain due to the constant forward position on the bike. Shoulders and arms get stiff from maintaining grip and control. Cycling can also cause or exacerbate imbalances in muscle development, as the action of cycling requires symmetry, yet very few people are built symmetrically! Yoga poses stretch and release tight muscles, alleviating these issues. Targeted poses can ease back discomfort, and overall body balance helps to prevent cycling-related injuries.
In fact, yoga plays a major role in injury prevention. The alignment, balance and flexibility it brings reduce the risk of injuries that can arise from the repetitive motions of cycling. If you are recovering from injury, yoga can help rehab. It can also speed up post-ride recovery, reducing muscle soreness and fatigue. Certain poses that target common cyclist complaints, such as hip pain, can provide profound relief.
Yoga on the Tourdeboland
Tourdeboland believes in informality. We can offer a session every day post-ride, on one or two days, or on request. Ellen is equally happy to teach a group or work one to one. Sessions will be relaxed and last 30-45 minutes. You will leave with an understanding of how to build yoga stretches into your own recovery routine.
There is no need to book, but if you think you might be interested it would help our planning if you let us know.
