Chiropractic Advice for Motorcycle Riding
By Brandi Goodman
Motorcycles can provide a fun and exciting ride. You just need to be careful when you go and keep some chiropractic advice in mind. Riding a motorcycle -- just like a bike -- can be hard on the back if you're leaning too far forward or keeping your body tense. Consider the following so you can ride with ease.
Get the Right Bike for Your Height
Your height matters when it comes to choosing a motorcycle. You don't want to sit too low and struggle to reach the handlebars, but you also don't want to sit too tall and have to hunch over farther than needed. You'll end up in some serious pain if you ride this way. Get the right bike for your height so you can sit comfortably without reaching or leaning too much.
Stretch Before and After You Ride
You always want to stretch your body out well before you do any sort of physical activity. You may not think riding a motorcycle counts because you're sitting, but it definitely does work out your body to some extent. You need to stretch before getting on your bike so your joints remain flexible and your body doesn't stiffen easily. You need to stretch out after your ride as well to help loosen your muscles and ensure your body is fine after a long ride.
Work on Your Core Strength
A weak core and back muscles will not allow you to maintain proper balance on your bike. You need to work hard to strengthen your core and get your abs and back in good shape so you can avoid discomfort in this area. A strong body makes it easier to hold up a heavy motorcycle and keep it balanced throughout the duration.
Wear Comfortable Boots
This should go without saying, but wearing sandals and open-toed shoes on a motorcycle ride is not wise. Even a pair of athletic shoes won't suffice. You really should be wearing a comfortable, yet sturdy pair of biker boots that will allow you to put your foot down on the ground and hold a paused position at stop signs and lights. Hitting the hard ground in a flat pair of shoes can lead to some serious foot and leg pain that eventually causes back problems as well. You need supportive boots that won't let the impact of the hard ground cause discomfort.
If you still experience some discomfort after you've been riding your motorcycle, it may be wise to stop in at one of the more than 600 Joint Chiropractic locations. Have an assessment to determine whether a subluxation may be the culprit, or if you have some changes to make for your next ride. You want to be able to enjoy your time on your bike without worrying about discomfort.
To learn more about your health, wellness, and fitness, see your local chiropractor at The Joint Chiropractic in Phoenix, Ariz.