Get your position right - Guide to taking up cycling

 
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Get your position right

 
Get your position right

Once you've got your bike, it's important to get your position on it right so that you're comfy, you can control your bike better and move better.

Your saddle is at the right height if your knee is bent 20 degrees when your foot is placed squarely on the pedal at the lowest point. The saddle must be horizontal: if it's tilted upwards it will crush your perineum and lower pelvis, cause you pain and compress your blood vessels. 

Your handlebars have to be adjusted to suit your body shape and according to how supple you are. The best thing is to try a balanced position, not too far forwards or backwards, keeping part of the weight of your chest on the handlebars to reduce the pressure on your pelvic area.

To reduce aches and pains, it's recommended you change your posture regularly, moving your hands from the top to the bottom of your handlebars and positioning your buttocks on the front or back of your saddle. You'll vary any little discomforts and spread out the pressure on certain parts of your body.



  
  


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Sarah Horrocks
05/05/2009
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Why cycle?


What do you need?


Getting started


Tips for a perfect bike ride


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webaholic : « I took up cycling in the summer and love it. Me and my husband cycled through Blackpool illuminations last weekend and covered about 13 miles... [read more] »
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