Serious runners sidelined by injuries can identify with the frustration and disappointment of having to find other activities to fill the void during their convalescence. Even as I cross-train, while biding my time before arthroscopic hip surgery next month, I’ve found nothing else, really, that could replicate the “runner’s high” feeling after a good, hardy run in the park, when those endorphins are set loose.
But there is one sport that comes pretty close: cycling. And the orthopedic surgeon who will be repairing my torn hip labrum (caused by femoroacetabular impingement, or F.A.I.) has given me his blessing to ride, in part because of its low impact on the joints.
I will occasionally take out my road bike and pedal through the local roads or park, but, honestly, the frequent traffic can be inhibiting, and you can’t ride in inclement weather. So I’ve grown to love indoor riding. No cars. No flat tires. No helmets. A little rain? Who cares!
At least twice a week I head to the gym and ride on an upright stationary bike (I prefer that over a recumbent). Time flies when you’re listening to music or watching the built-in TV on the console, and it’s fun to check your heart rate, and see how many calories you’ve burned or the rotations per minute, or R.P.M’s.
Spinning, however, is by far my favorite when it comes to indoor cycling. Like the stationary bike, it provides a low-impact aerobic workout that can burn serious calories (an estimated 400 to 500 calories in 45 minutes, according to studies). But to me, the spin bike feels more like a real road bike (and you even have the option of using the click-in pedals). By adjusting the resistance of the flywheel, as well as your cadence, you can push up “hills” or speed through the “flats.” Changing positions (there are essentially three) can target muscles in the lower body and even your abdominals.
Of course, you can obtain similar benefits by hooking up your road bike to a stationary trainer, which I’ve also tried. But I prefer to “ride” with a group at a cycling studio, usually on weekends, with an over-enthusiastic instructor barking instructions to pedal faster and harder above the blaring music. Not exactly a “runner’s high,” but the next best thing.
ONE QUICK NOTE: Like any activity, improper posture and form can lead to injuries, as can overuse, so cycle with care.
Thanks ACF. I’ve done sprint triathlons before. One good thing about training for them is that it forces you to cross-train, which, as we know, can help prevent injuries.
I agree it is hard to replicate the high a person feels after a an especially good run. May I suggest after you have fully recovered from your hip surgery you enter a sprint or Olympic distance triathlon (a combined swim, bike and running race). You may find the experience as rewarding as your good hardy run in the park.
The leg part is especially important in the summertime!
You’re totally right. Spinning can give you an equally awesome “high.” Plus it really helps shape your legs!