The possibility that your journey here will be among those giant folds of green where tigers can be found lying. That yer own locks are brushed by the wind like a careless lover’s when you soar over hundreds of miles of such scenery without meeting many people; racing hundred miles is really handsome work. If a long trip leaves you feeling stiff and tired, have no fear. Because yoga –Yoga https://bewellacademy.biz! – your secret weapon months ago you did not realize you were missing. Like bread in a sandwich for cyclists.
Imagine that it is your fifty mile of a hundred mile ride and your back is making noises like any small child lost in the dark. If I told you that yoga could put an end to that music? What if yoga could stretch out all those muscles which cycling tightens like winding up a clock’s mainspring.
Flexibility is the first item. A cyclist ‘s hamstrings are tighter than a ukulele string. Sun salutations will loosen them up so that your pedalling becomes smoother. Not only should you be able to fold up outside as if you were a pretzel, but also balance your entire body weight on one finger without restriction of movement.
Balance is again involved. Ever felt a little shake when trying to clip-in at red-light because there’s nowhere else left to lean on? You may find that tree pose is your new best friend. By pretending to be a tree and swaying gently in the breeze, you’ll strengthen your stabilizing muscles.
Breathing is yet another important part of yoga. We do it all the time, but really don’t think about it unless you ‘re climbing a steep trail and gasping for breath. Yoga teaches correct breathing techniques. It ‘s not hippie talk: your muscles are energized and propel you upward when climbing those steep hills only if they get adequate oxygen.
And then there’s the need to keep up core strength. Cycling does develop the core muscles. But yoga takes it further by targeting core stabilizers with moves like plank pose or boat. A strong abdominal core means better posture when on your bicycle and less likelihood of fatigue.
What about after the workout that follows exercise? Everyone who has ever exercised feels like lying down. Savasana helps ease the aches in your muscles by relaxing and stimulating circulation.
Mental toughness, too, is acquired by yoga which cyclists need to face headwinds or hills forever. Yoga promotes mindfulness and focus.
The next time you are about to start off on another epic bike ride — or maybe even rolling in the city–consider doing some warrior poses before your ride! Physically and mentally better prepared, wherever the wheels take you.