Summer is the perfect time to take your exercise al fresco, as we’ve mentioned before. Creating a mindful session that is good for your health and wellbeing; while boosting your concentration and energy levels.

I’m a huge fan of cycling as it’s such a great way to enjoy the outdoors with family, friends or with an organised group. The benefits are endless from reduced stress and increased muscle tone, bones of steel and chiselled legs. Not to mention seeing the world from a different perspective.

It’s also kinder to the planet and your wallet. What’s not to love?

Also because it raises your metabolic rate, builds muscle and burns body fat a great way to control or maintain weight. You will burn between 200 and 500 calories on a half hour ride – what a great way to get to work. Probably why it’s recommended by the NHS as being a great way to cut your risk of developing major illnesses such as heart disease and cancer.

Another great reason for getting the bike out is unlike running cycling is not weight bearing meaning a lower chance of injury. Well that’s a win surely?

The Cycling Weekly recently published a blog sharing fifteen benefits of cycling, which you can read here.

We’re such big fans of cycling that at Sarum Physio Isobel Howse (Izzy) and myself both offer ‘bike assessments’. Not of your bike but of YOU, making sure you’re saddle ready. So if you’re thinking of getting the bike out over the holidays call 01722 415 055 to make an appointment.

Alfresco Top Tips

  • No matter your sport or exercise of choice during the summer sunscreen is super important when exercising outside.
  • Along with staying hydrated and not forgetting rehydrating to prevent muscle cramp.
  • And no matter the season the right footwear makes all the difference to your performance and to help prevent injury.

While the type of injury presented at Sarum doesn’t change season to season, the reason can. During a hot spell it can be easy to skip or skimp on preparation time (the warm-up) and might leave you believing that cooling down is no longer necessary. Both are extremely important for preventing injury, so please always warm up and cool down.

Another top tip is …. never wait to ‘see if it gets better’. The sooner you seek help the quicker the recovery time and the less chance of recurring injury or associated problems.

At Sarum, we offer a joined-up approach meaning you will always receive the right treatment for you. From physio to massage, from biomechanics to chiropody – we’ve got you covered. Get summer ready for the exercise of your choice by calling 01722 415 055 to make an appointment.