Cycling is the new trend of exercise in the youth these days. Many individuals find cycling awesome than their regular gym exercises. Myself, I have been a cyclist for quite a long time. As an Ayurveda physician here are few suggestions to my cyclist friends.

Every type of exercise including ride, run & swim increases the Air and Space elements, which is termed as the ‘Vata’ Dosha in Ayurveda. We have to channelize & neutralize this excess Vata to uplift our health condition. “Abhyanga” i.e. application of oil should be essential part of a cyclist’s daily routine, which will strengthen muscles, joints, ligaments also pacifying the excess Vata. It also has positive effect on skin tone & texture. It promotes excess weight loss by releasing the toxin blockages in the channels of energy which also helps building stamina. Lower back along with the lower extremities are more prone to injuries by repetitive movements and continuous strain, Abhyanga if done regularly will prevent further injuries enhancing your quality of ride. A five minute application of oil just before you go for a shower is so much of worth to the benefits you get from it.

I would recommend practicing Surya Namaskar/Sun salutations or other Yoga stretching as a warm up to your cycling workout. Surya Namaskar is also termed as सर्वांगीण व्यायाम in Sanskrit, which means a complete exercise. Surya Namaskar as a warm up will work to tone and warm up your muscles. A single set of Surya Namaskar post cycling may be considered as a cool down stretching you need. Apart from Sun salutations/Surya Namaskar there are other Yogic poses if done regularly can help you enhance the flexibility and strength of your back muscles. To name a few among them; Setubandhasana, Ushtrasana, Bhujangasana, Dhanurasana are simple Yogic poses everyone can do to strengthen the spinal muscles.