On the one hand, cycling can be a sensible alternative if you suffer from Achilles tendon pain but, on the other hand, it can also cause problems.

1. What causes Achilles tendon pain when cycling?
2. The ‘protective’ alternative for the Achilles tendon: cycling
3. Constant tensile strain on the Achilles tendon is not a problem

The position of the pedals: the further forwards the pedals are under your foot, especially in the case of the clip-in pedals used by racing cyclists and mountain bikers, the greater the leverage on the Achilles tendon and so the greater the risk of Achilles tendon complaints.

It is important that the cleats are in the correct position on your forefoot!

Saddles that are set too high: the foot is always in an equines position and the calf and Achilles tendon are constantly under tension.

Having the saddle too high leads to an equines position.

If your Achilles tendon hurts when running/jogging or playing soccer or tennis, cycling, whether competitive or leisure cycling, is a good alternative that helps protect the Achilles tendon. But please bear in mind the information above!

Constant tensile strain on the Achilles tendon when cycling is not a problem – if everything on your bike is set correctly – as the so-called stress relaxation phenomenon is at work here. Loading on the Achilles tendon when cycling then decreases if it has an influence for long enough. At the end of the cycle ride the tendon goes back to its original state.