Lee Chimerakis recently concluded a more than three-decade career in finance as a senior vice president of a major global investment firm. Since retiring, Lee Chimerakis enjoys staying physically fit through strength training and cycling, among other outdoor interests.
Stretching prior to a physical workout is often a sound idea. That said, some physical activities are better met with a post-workout stretch, such as cycling. Stretching prior to a long ride can be unnecessary, as cycling consists of repetitive, limited range motion, meaning the rider’s legs are never fully extended or completely flexed. Furthermore, cycling is one of the few physical activities that involve only concentric muscle contractions and no eccentric contractions. Stretching before such a workout, particularly when the muscles are cold, can do more harm than good.
Beyond a few basic dynamic stretches ahead of a ride, most stretches should be performed after a cycling workout. Static stretches can help return muscles to their normal length and increase length in shortened muscles. Areas of focus should include quads, hip flexors, hamstrings, and the lower back. Riders are advised to hold each stretch for approximately 20 seconds.
