As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases @AMAZON

Designed for the most demanding needs of photographers and videographers.
Connect and charge all of your devices through a single Thunderbolt or USB-C port.

Stretching

2011-03-08 • SEND FEEDBACK
Related: training

It is my observation (using a power meter in real time): tight hamstrings reduce power output by resisting the quadriceps.

A power increase of 10-15 watts after I stop and stretch the hammies out is not uncommon. Not only does this free up the quadriceps from resistance of their own and from the hamstrings, I typically can increase cadence another 5 rpm or so. The extra power is likely due both to reduced resistance (tightness) as well as allowing the legs to coordinate quads/hamstrings better on each pedal stroke.

When to stretch

I rarely stretch before a ride. It’s not smart for one thing— muscles are cold and stiff, the worst possible time to stretch.

Instead, ride easily for 10-15 minutes, then stretch.

Stretching after the workout is a smart move, contributing to long term flexibility. Stretching in a nice warm shower can be much more enjoyable too.

See also Using a Foam Roller.

Chillin’
View all handpicked deals...

Voigtlander MACRO APO-LANTHAR 65mm f/2 Aspherical Lens for Sony E
$999 $849
SAVE $150

diglloyd.com | Terms of Use | PRIVACY POLICY
Contact | About Lloyd Chambers | Consulting | Photo Tours
Mailing Lists | RSS Feeds | X.com/diglloyd
Copyright © 2020 diglloyd Inc, all rights reserved.
Display info: __RETINA_INFO_STATUS__