How Does Acupuncture Benefit Cyclists?
Every athlete knows that the repetitive motion of running, weight lifting, or jumping can take a toll on his body. Cycling is no exception. Over time, your back starts to hurt, your neck feels stiff, and recovery time increases. These issues are common among those who are preparing for a race or cycling long distances.
Acupuncture might be exactly what you need to overcome these problems and stay injury-free. This form of therapy can address pain and aches before they become chronic. Additionally, it accelerates healing and relaxes tensed muscles.
Achieve Faster, Stronger Cycling Performance
This healing practice was widely publicized during the 2008 Olympic Games in China. Many athletes were relying on it as a means to prevent and treat injuries. Thousands of studies conducted over the years confirm its benefits on sports performance and overall health.
Acupuncture has emerged as one of the best ways to reduce pain and aches. By stimulating specific points on your body, it stops inflammation in its tracks and provides immediate pain relief. This can eliminate the need for medications, which often carry side effects.
By working with your connective tissues, this therapy helps soothe tensed muscles and promotes relaxation. It can also loosen up the stiffness in your back, hamstrings, quads, and other muscles involved in cycling. As a result, you’ll recover faster and reduce your risk of injury.
Tight muscles and lock joints can affect the exertion of power on the pedal. They are also more prone to injuries and get fatigued more easily. Regular acupuncture sessions relieve muscle tension and irritated nerves, leading to improved cycling performance.
According to a 2008-study conducted on 20 cyclists, those who received acupuncture got a higher RPE (perceived exertion scale) score compared to the rest. An improved RPE translates into a faster record time and less muscle pain following exercise.
What to Expect in an Acupuncture Session?
Contrary to popular belief, acupuncture isn’t painful at all. During a typical session, the therapist will insert hair-thin needles into specific areas on your body. Stimulating these points triggers physiological changes, such as increased tolerance to pain and stress.
This ancient practice has none of the side effects of anti-inflammatory medications, painkillers, or performance-enhancing drugs. Yet, it’s just as effective and even better. Try it yourself – the results are immediate.
Needle for acupuncture on white background
