If after every bike ride you just want to slip off the saddle and never get back on it again, you’re not alone! Many women experience discomfort while riding, but that doesn’t mean it has to be that way. The right bike, proper fit, and a few helpful hacks can help you enjoy every ride without pain or irritation. Let’s break down what can make your cycling workout much more comfortable!
1. Pick the perfect saddle
Let’s be honest, finding the perfect saddle is like finding the perfect pair of shoes. It’s possible, but it takes a little bit of work. Many cyclists spend years experimenting, trying different models, and unfortunately, they often do so through pain. The important thing to remember here is that the saddle should fit you, not just be “feminine” or “ergonomic”.
Bike manufacturers like to design “one-size-fits-all” options, but each of us is unique. So if one saddle makes you uncomfortable, don’t agonize and try a different one. There are stores where you can test ride different models before buying, and this is a great way to avoid mistakes.
2. Adjust your fit and check your saddle height
Sometimes it’s not the saddle that’s the problem, it’s how it’s positioned. If the saddle is too high, the pressure on the soft tissues increases, which can cause pain. If the handlebars are too far away, your body weight shifts forward and you start leaning on the front of the saddle, which is not a pleasant place to be for long periods of contact.
Check to make sure your bike is set up properly:
- Your knees should be slightly bent when the pedal is in the down position.
- Your weight should be evenly distributed between the saddle, handlebars and pedals.
If you feel numbness or burning after a ride, it’s worth adjusting your seating position.
3. Determine the width of your sitting bones
Few people think about it, but we all have different distances between our sitting bones (these are the ones you lean on when you sit). If your saddle is too narrow, the load is put on the soft tissues, which is not only painful but can lead to health problems.
How do you check the width? Simply sit on a piece of cardboard after a shower (or on a soft surface that leaves a mark), and see what marks remain. This is the distance you need to consider when choosing a saddle!
4. Refrain from shaving before you ride
Yes, yes, we understand wanting smoothness, but shaving the area before a bike ride is not a good idea. The fact is that after hair removal, the skin becomes more sensitive, and sweat and constant friction can lead to irritation, inflamed follicles and even infections.
If you still want to minimize the length of hair, it is better to carefully trim, but do not shave it completely. Hair has a protective function, and removing it completely can cause more problems than comfort.
5. Use a special anti-chafing cream or gel
If you ride long distances or train often, try anti-friction creams. There are cycling creams on the market, but even a double-base medical gel used to prevent pressure sores will do. It reduces friction, moisturizes the skin, and prevents irritation.
Apply a small amount before traveling and the ride will be immediately more pleasant. This is especially important in the summer when hot weather and sweat can increase discomfort.
The key is to make cycling a pleasure, not a problem. If you’re comfortable, you’ll ride more often, have more fun and even perform better in your workouts. That means every minute spent choosing the right equipment is worth it!