How much calf use cycling?

[Vladimir]

I had a pretty nasty calf impact a few weeks ago that means running is out for a little while and walking any distance causes trouble but a short MTB ride (to walk the dog!) felt okay - how much work do calves do when cycling, specificially slightly technical MTBing? Because however much you are meant to "totally rest" an injury, this "minor knock" (a surfboard with rider on it hit me - it was a hell of a whack) is turning into an Autumn ruiner. I've already had to cancel a few events...

Part of the reason I ask is that I've just fitted nice new Fox forks and want to use the darn things...

[Digga]

Vlad, even on a full-susser, you need to be able to adopt the 'dropped heels' stance on the rough stuff - this deos require some strength and mobility on calves.

I'm by no means an expert, but I'd suspect rest means very mild and gentle use only. A nice XC bimble would probably do more benefit than good, but I'd guess impacts or dynamic loads are to be avoided.

If it's any consolation a surfing injury (no, I can't surf, as I found out) namely badly bruised ribs kept me off the mtb the year before last. Heal well.

[P-Jay]

What he said.

If I were you I'd avoid any type of riding that involves you getting out of the seat until you're healed, it's not worth the risk.

[Vladimir]

Oh sh**sticks. I'd better get myself a shopper then...!

[rhinochopig]

Only you know your body. Keep doing slightly longer light xc rides and see how you get on. The thing with muscle damage is that keeping it mobile is a benefit - with reason obviously.

[Vladimir]

rhinochopig said:

Only you know your body. Keep doing slightly longer light xc rides and see how you get on. The thing with muscle damage is that keeping it mobile is a benefit - with reason obviously.

I'm doing light stretches and light walks but still waking (almost three weeks later) with a damn stiff leg. A lot longer to heal than expected.

I don't think I'll be running for a while though - just as my trail mile/min times were plummeting too -arrrghhh!!!

Luckily surfing seems fine if a little uncomfortable.