4 Reasons for Achilles Injuries in Cycling
Every revolution of your pedals feels effortless—until it doesn’t. Our old friend and old chestnut the Achilles tendon is always there supporting you on those climbs, long days on the saddle or back to back cycle classes. Acting like a high-performance spring, it absorbs energy with every downstroke and propels you forward. But when this essential tendon is overworked or mistreated, even the smoothest rides can grind to a painful halt.
At Ciclo, we see it all the time: amazing and dedicated cyclists sidelined by Achilles injuries that could have been avoided or treated sooner. Whether you’re chasing Ks or enjoying weekend tours, understanding and protecting your Achilles tendon is key to keeping your rides pain-free. Let’s dive into what goes wrong—and how we can get you back on track.
Despite cycling being lower-impact than running, the repetitive motion and sustained load on your feet and calves can create the perfect storm for an Achilles injury. The most common culprits include:
The “Almost-Perfect” Fit
Firstly one of the main reasons for achilles pain is a Fit of your equipment that’s 80% right but not perfect for you is one of the biggest issues leading to achilles tendon injuries in cycling . We see lots of athletes riding the wrong size bike, because someone at the store told them it was right (hint, sometimes they try to offload sizes that are close enough) lead to alterations in your body that have to compensate for the wrong size bike. For example
Is your saddle too high? You’re over-stretching your ankle with every pedal stroke.
Misaligned cleats? Your tendon works overtime to stabilise your midfoot.
2. Training: All Gas, No Brakes
Secondly, cyclists who have ramped up training too quickly can suffer from too much load too quickly through the body and especially the achilles tendon.
If you’ve ramped up your kilometres or intensity too fast, your Achilles tendon may be struggling to keep up. Remember: it’s a team effort between your body and your bike.
3. Muscle Imbalances: Weak Glutes, Angry Tendons
Thirdly another issue we see as contributing to achilles tendon pain in cyclists, and one we see all the time. Old ankle injuries, weak hamstrings, too much quad dominance and tight calves overload your Achilles tendon. When one link in the chain weakens, the Achilles often pays the price.
4. Shoes That Don’t Work as Hard as You Do
Cycling shoes with poor arch support or too much heel lift? They’re not just uncomfortable—they’re sabotaging your tendon health. Furthermore are the cleats level, have they been checked or are they angled on the wrong direction leading to overload somewhere else on your body.
The Warning Signs: When to Listen to Your Body
Your body whispers before it screams. Don’t ignore the early signs of an Achilles injury:
A dull ache or stiffness at the back of your ankle after a ride. Especially the morning after a big ride, when you first wake up you’ll feel 150 years old.
Pain during climbs, sprints, or even walking post-ride.
Swelling or a “creaky” sensation in the tendon when you flex your ankle.
Left untreated, this can escalate into chronic tendinitis or a tear—something no cyclist wants to hear.
The Ciclo Approach: Achilles Recovery Designed for Cyclists
At Ciclo, cycling is more than just sport—it’s our passion. That’s why our approach to Achilles tendon injuries is tailored specifically for riders like you.
Here’s What We Do Differently:
Fit Assessment:
Your bike should work for you. We analyse saddle height, cleat alignment, and posture to eliminate strain at the root. You can book in for a Fit here
Hands-On Treatment:
Using targeted manual therapy, we release tension in your calves, Achilles, and surrounding tissues to restore balance and mobility.
Cyclist-Specific Strength Rehab:
Forget generic exercises. We focus on eccentric Achilles strengthening, high level hamstring and glute strength, and dynamic drills that mimic the demands of cycling.
Load Management + Recovery Plan:
We’ll get you back on the bike safely with a structured, gradual return to intensity—designed to keep you pain-free.
Education That Empowers You:
We teach you how to warm up, stretch, and strengthen effectively so your injury doesn’t make a comeback.
Small Changes, Big Gains: Preventing Achilles Injuries
Here’s the truth: prevention is easier than recovery. Our top tips for Achilles health:
Nail Your Fit: If you’re guessing, you’re stressing. Invest in a professional fit.
Strength Train Smart: Include calf raises, single-leg deadlifts, and ankle mobility drills in your weekly routine.
Listen to the Load: Increase your distance and intensity gradually—your tendons need time to adapt.
Love Your Shoes: Ensure your cycling shoes support your arches and keep your feet stable.
Warm Up Like You Mean It: A quick warm-up can make a big difference—especially for tendons under load.
Why Cyclists Trust Ciclo
At Ciclo, we speak your language. Whether you’re climbing hills, chasing KOMs, or grinding through long rides, we know what’s at stake. Our physiotherapy treatments are built around cyclists—by professionals who understand your sport.
We’ll help you ride stronger, recover smarter, and stay injury-free so you can focus on what you love: the ride.
Achilles Pain? Let’s Fix It.
Don’t let an Achilles injury steal your joy in cycling. Book a session at Ciclo today, and let’s get you back in the saddle—pain-free and stronger than ever.
