Two Stretches That Will Improve The Way You Ride

Are you looking for that magic bullet that will make you climb like Alberto Contador? How about time trialing like Levi Leipheimer? Or sprinting like Tom Boonen? Unfortunately, I can’t guarantee any of the aforementioned. However, I can show you two ways of improving the quality of your rides in a matter of days. Here’s how…by focusing on two yoga stretches called the Cat-Cow and the Pigeon Pose.

Before we proceed, please understand that the purpose of this post is not to bog you down with medical jargon and diagrams that you can’t use or understand. The purpose is to present difficult material in layman terms that can be applied immediately and successfully. Also, please read this sites disclaimer before proceeding.

Therefore, let’s begin our focus on the Cat-Cow stretch. This stretch establishes ideal spinal alignment, simultaneously strengthens and stretches the back muscles and develops coordination of spinal movement.

It is performed by getting on all fours and positioning your hands under your shoulders and your knees under your hips. In this relaxed position, you’ll gain a sense of what it feels like to occupy a supported spine and a centered position.

Once in this position, roll your chin toward your chest and arch the spine like a cat. Then relax and slightly arch your back while lifting the head. Again, relax and then repeat from the beginning.

When you go into the cow position, your back muscles get a workout. When you go into the cat position, they are stretched.

To see how this is performed correctly, watch the following video:

The second stretch is called the Pigeon Pose. This is a wonderful stretch for the thighs, groin, back and psoas muscles. It also opens the chest and shoulders. For cyclists, this pose or stretch is essential to open up the pelvic region and to aid in relaxing the hip flexors which take a great deal of pounding when cycling.

It is much easier to guide you through this stretch with a demonstration video than to try and explain each step. Keep in mind that you want to ease into this stretch slowly and stop if it causes any pain or discomfort.

As you can see, this is a wonderful stretch to perform before and after a ride. Try adding these two stretches to your routine and you’ll be amazed at the difference they will make!

Tagged as: Stretches