After a life altering accident and years of rehab, COAST Physiotherapist Nika Sidiropoulos’ passion for sports and movement became rekindled by chance encounter with cycling. Here’s her story.
How did you first get introduced to cycling?
Cycling became my gateway back into physical activity during the COVID-19 pandemic. In my early 20s, I suffered major injuries from a skiing accident, breaking both hips and my neck. The severity of those injuries forced me to step away from the sports and activities I loved for years. I was afraid of re-injury and struggled with how my body had changed after the accident, so I avoided most physical activities for a long time. When COVID hit, I was eager to find an outdoor activity that felt safe and manageable. On a whim, I bought a road bike and was immediately hooked.
What do you love most about the sport?
Over time, cycling became a way for me to regain confidence in my body. It allowed me to push my limits, and now, five years later, I’m a middle-distance endurance cyclist. What I love most about cycling is the freedom it offers. The distances you can cover on a bike allow you to explore new places, and that sense of adventure has made cycling an essential part of my life.
How has it shaped your practice as a physiotherapist?
With my history of injuries, I became passionate about optimizing bike fits to reduce pain and discomfort. This led me to get certified with Bike Fit Canada, where I now help others who struggle with discomfort while riding. I’ve learned a lot about how to adjust a bike to suit an individual’s body, and I love sharing that knowledge with others to help them enjoy cycling without pain.