Imagine the thrill of a pulsating heart and pedals that spin like a well-oiled engine. Anybody who has taken a ride on a two-wheeler can attest to the thrill of cycling. But after miles of pedaling your muscles can create a wonderful symphony. Enter yoga for surfers: a surprising partner to your cycling excursions.

Imagine yoga as a special treasure map revealing a newfound degree of flexibility. It is not uncommon for cyclists to have tight hamstrings. They may also experience stiff lower backs and tense shoulder muscles. Yoga releases tension in a gentle manner. With regular practice it may feel like magic. Imagine unrolling your yoga mat and a sense of pure Zen wrapping your body in a hug after your cycling session.

Let’s discuss a yin versus yang scenario: cyclists’ quadriceps against yoga’s stretching techniques. In cycling, quadriceps are overused and can cause muscle imbalances. Poses like the down dog are a great way to fight this imbalance. They also invite other muscles, which have been neglected, to join the fun. No muscle left behind. It’s teamwork. Yin and Yang come together like peanut butter & jelly.

Jim, a good friend of mine says: “Cyclists require yoga like fish require water.” Jim used to think yoga was only stretching. Then, one dull Sunday morning he decided to swap his spandex and sweats for a pair of sweats. He was no longer a cyclist, but rather a yogi. What is his favorite pose to do? Pigeon. It is as weird as it seems but releases hip tension like magic.

Neglecting the hips is a recipe for disaster. There is a lizard-like pose that opens hips flexors. There is a sigh of relief for cyclists suffering from hip restrictions. The old-fashioned trick has been updated with modern magic.

“What’s the mind?” is what you ask. Oh, Yoga’s got you covered. Ever heard of someone winning a race before it has even begun? The mindgame. Yoga helps you calm down those racing ideas, calm nerves and focus your intentions. Imagine balance and serenity as you sit cross-legged at the top of your bike.

You will meet the warrior, the cobra, and the cat-cow when you go through your yoga playlist. Warriors help build strength. Cobras lift by stretching their chests and abdominals. They hunch over handlebars in an endless forward motion. Cat-cow? It’s just a gentle wake-up, like giving an older friend a good shake.

You can learn to be your own mechanic if you are a cyclist with a goal in mind. Yoga is a great way to tune in your body. Attention: Each session is similar to tightening an unreliable spoke. This will make the ride more smooth. Yoga allows our muscles to rest, as they are well aware of their need for recovery and rest.

Bottom line: Everyone who wants to ride a bike with a friend off the path should consider yoga. Laughing through awkward poses can make it feel as fluid and easy as your favorite bike ride. You will feel the benefits in your legs and mind. Molecules may even be high-fiving. If you’re using a digital guide or are following an experienced expert, it is important to take a few deep breaths and stretch.

The practice dates back to ancient times, but cyclists are discovering it for the first time today. Worried about keeping up? Each pedal push challenges your spirit in the same way that yoga transforms your inner core. Let’s get started, my friend. You’ll quickly see that yoga is the missing cog to your cycling system.