yoga for cyclists

[withm]

http://www.terrybicycles.com/detail....&c=Accessories

Here's a Yoga DVD for cyclists

[HillSlugger]

http://www.terrybicycles.com/detail....&c=Accessories

Here's a Yoga DVD for cyclists

I did the original Yoga for Cyclists this morning for the very first time (since getting it as an x-mas present). I was feeling tired and burned out and didn't feel like doing and swim/bike/run so I decided to try the video. I don't know if it will help my cycling, but I felt great afterward and am determined to make this a regular part of my training. I'm interested in a real live yoga or pilates class during the winter, too.

[SLash]

FWIW, I use yoga to stay more flexible on the bike and in general. Yoga is good for stretching hamstrings which are notoriously tight on cyclists. It also helps me to ride more comfortably in the drops since many of the basic moves focus on bending at the hips/pelvis (not the waist). Although I've taken yoga classes with a certified instructor I use a dvd (instant viewing over internet) through Netflix of Baron Baptiste entitled Long and Lean, now and do it on my own.

[Wahine]

I do yoga regularly and find it very beneficial for balancing the effects of multisport training.

I would second what others have said and advise finding a small class in a yoga studio. Once you have a good handle on what your "bad habits" and tendencies are then a DVD is fine. But it's always best to start out with an instructor in a small class setting.

I would also suggest either Iyengar (if flexibility is an issue) or Ashtanga style ( if you are looking for more core work and power).

[TrekTheKaty]

I agree with the weight lifting. Get a personal trainer consultation at your local gym (preferably a cyclist and/or familiar with knee problems), and have them set up a routine that addresses your knees. If you build the muscles around the knee, it can help stabilize them (I've never had knee problems, but this is the theory). You can also develop power through plyometrics(?) which is things such as step ups and jumping. A trainer will show you proper technique.

I hesitate to recommend yoga DVD's because everyone is correct--if you have "issues" you need a good yoga instructor who can build a program for you with modifications. However, personally I have lower back issues and I like Rodney Yee's "Yoga for back pain" and "Sports conditioning--mini yoga workouts." I've been meaning to post this mini cycling workout here, so for those already familiar with the poses, here it goes:
(purpose is to undo the forward bending of cycling and open the chest and shoulders)

backbend
downdog
left lunge
downdog
backbend
downdog
right lunge
downdog
right side angle standing
downdog
left side angle standing
downdog
cobra (twice)
hamstring stretch on your back w/ strap
Put a rolled up blanket under your shoulder blades--arms overhead

[Norse]

+1 for Rodney Yee's DVD's once you have had some Yoga instruction. Two of my favorite Yee video's are a 1/2 hour Power Yoga: Flexability and a longer Yoga for Athletes. The second of these DVD's also includes a nice, short 10 minute stretch specific for cyclists. I have a history of back issues so I also LOVE, and my biking has benefited greatly, from Peggy Cappy's back-specific Yoga DVD's.

[Norse]

"video's"? I guess I got carried away with my apostrophes.