Cycling primarily targets the quadriceps muscles in the front of the thigh, so the hamstring muscles may not be as well trained compared to other muscles. However, the hamstring muscles are still engaged during cycling to a certain extent, especially during the upstroke phase of the pedal stroke. To ensure proper balance and strength in the leg muscles, it is recommended to incorporate specific hamstring exercises into a cycling training routine. **

I'm not a medical professional, so I cannot provide a definitive answer. However, if you are experiencing severe pain, swelling, bruising, and difficulty moving your leg, it is possible that you may have a torn hamstring. It is important to consult with a healthcare provider for an accurate diagnosis and appropriate treatment plan. **

Training the hamstring muscles typically involves a combination of exercises that target the back of the thighs. Some effective exercises include deadlifts, hamstring curls, Romanian deadlifts, and glute-ham raises. It is important to vary the exercises and incorporate both strength training and stretching to ensure overall hamstring development and flexibility. Additionally, proper form and technique are crucial to prevent injury and maximize the effectiveness of the workout. **

The shortened hamstring can be effectively treated through a combination of stretching, strengthening, and manual therapy. Stretching exercises such as the standing hamstring stretch and the supine hamstring stretch can help to improve flexibility and lengthen the muscle. Strengthening exercises, such as deadlifts and lunges, can help to improve the overall strength and function of the hamstring. Additionally, manual therapy techniques such as massage and myofascial release can help to release tension and improve the flexibility of the muscle. It is important to work with a qualified healthcare professional, such as a physical therapist, to develop a personalized treatment plan for addressing a shortened hamstring. **

To effectively train the hamstring with the leg press, you can adjust your foot placement on the footplate. Placing your feet higher on the footplate and wider apart will target the hamstrings more. Focus on pushing through your heels during the exercise to engage the hamstrings. Additionally, you can slow down the lowering phase of the movement to increase the time under tension on the hamstrings. **

Both sitting and lying down hamstring exercises have their benefits. Lying down exercises, such as hamstring curls, isolate the hamstring muscles and allow for a greater range of motion. On the other hand, sitting exercises, like seated leg curls, also target the hamstrings but engage the glutes and lower back to a greater extent. Therefore, a combination of both sitting and lying down exercises can provide a well-rounded hamstring workout. It's important to consider individual fitness goals and any existing injuries or limitations when choosing the best exercises for hamstring training. **

The calorie expenditure for road cycling and mountain biking can vary based on factors such as intensity, terrain, and duration. Generally, road cycling on flat terrain at a moderate pace can burn around 400-600 calories per hour, while mountain biking on varied terrain with hills and obstacles can burn around 500-800 calories per hour. The higher calorie expenditure in mountain biking is due to the increased effort required to navigate the challenging terrain and obstacles. Overall, mountain biking tends to result in a higher calorie expenditure compared to road cycling. **

Whether or not you should stop mountain biking depends on your personal circumstances and reasons for considering stopping. If you are experiencing physical pain or injury from mountain biking, it may be wise to take a break and seek medical advice. If you are feeling burnt out or no longer enjoying the activity, it may be beneficial to explore other forms of exercise or outdoor activities. Ultimately, the decision to stop mountain biking should be based on your own well-being and enjoyment. **