Cycling is painful with perineal, anal & vaginal pain problems. Disappointing if it’s your hobby tricky if it’s your mode of transport. Cycling can also cause pain due to compression of nerves and issues with blood flow in the perineum. In physio clinic we help men and women with these problems. If cycling is painful for you fix it now, don’t let it build up.
Today, some useful links and unusual resources about CYCLING. This is Cambridge. I know you want to know the detail!
#1 The importance of correct Bike Fit
Bianca Boardbenti s a physiotherapist who specialises in helping athletes with their cycling: @thecyclephysio www.fityourbike.co.uk
She has excellent instagram posts @thecyclephysio
| Bike Fit Series: a series of 7 videos explaining how to sit well and fit your bike |
#2 Lycra is not just a fashion thing…
Tbh I thought the MAMIL thing was just an excuse to buy kit. But Cycling Weekly have a very useful article on choosing cycling shorts – this links to an article for women’s and this to men’s. There’s truly excellent nerdy detail on bibs vs shorts, chamois (official name for the padded insert), leg grippers and the importance of seams, hygiene, and how to test them out.
#3 And saddles are a matter for ladies too…
It’s fairly obvious why saddle choice matters for men. And it really does, As a pelvic health physio I see a consistent pattern of chronic pelvic pain problems triggered or irritated by too long in the saddle.
See specialist bike physios advice for interesting articles on Saddle Sores and Choosing a Saddle
Even as a women’s health specialist I didn’t know that saddles could be problematic for women too. Did you know that the women’s Olympic cycling team are encouraged not to remove body hair (it offers important protection to delicate skin) & was fascinated to read about research (by Cobb’s cycle seats) into how to design comfortable seats for female anatomy. First you have to decide if you are an “innie or an outie”, and no this is not your belly button, go lower. Gentlemen skip on, but ladies this Total Women’s Cycling article is truly fascinating….
#4 Our bit for the Environment
And of course, cycling to your Pilates class is a sustainable green option. Given the parking limitations at our Shelford venues it’s often the easiest option too! In the lighter & warmer months perhaps think about ticking your cardiovascular exercise box on the way to and from your strength-training-Pilates?
