282: Here’s Why You Can’t Have Performance Without Comfort
Aug 24, 2023
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Experts discuss the importance of comfort in bike fits and performance, the impact of movement strategies on comfort and injury prevention, choosing the right chamois for comfortable cycling, knee health and asymmetries in performance, and the significance of bike fit in addressing discomfort. They also explore the innovation mindset in pedal systems and the effects of tire pressure on performance and comfort.
01:17:31
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Quick takeaways
Finding the right saddle and positioning it correctly is crucial for cycling comfort and performance.
Proper shoe choice, cleat positioning, and pedal selection can alleviate foot-related pain and discomfort.
Attention to glove selection, handlebar positioning, and bar tape can improve hand comfort and minimize pain and numbness.
Deep dives
Comfort and performance
Comfort and performance go hand in hand when it comes to cycling. It is important to find a balance between the two to ensure long-lasting and enjoyable rides. Many cyclists seek bike fits not just for performance gains, but also to address discomfort and pain that may hinder their abilities. By addressing positioning, touch points, and root causes of discomfort, riders can improve their comfort and, in turn, their performance.
The importance of saddle position
The saddle is at the center of a proper bike fit. Finding the right saddle and positioning it correctly is crucial for comfort and performance. Factors such as pelvic alignment, width, and shape are taken into consideration. Saddle position affects power transfer, stability, and muscle engagement. It is advised to try different saddles and utilize trial programs offered by fit facilities to find the one that works best for individual needs.
Foot and shoe considerations
Feet play a significant role in cycling comfort. Asymmetries, injuries, or discrepancies in foot and ankle mobility can lead to pain and discomfort. Proper shoe choice, cleat positioning, and pedal selection can alleviate these issues. Stance width and ankle range of motion are factors to consider when addressing foot-related discomfort. Taking into account individual factors and seeking expert guidance can help ensure optimal foot and shoe integration.
The role of chamois and hand comfort
Chamois and hand comfort are vital touch points in cycling. Chamois should mimic body contours to provide optimal support and alleviate pressure in sensitive areas. Finding chamois that work for individual preferences and riding needs is essential. Hand discomfort can be influenced by grip pressure, handlebar choice, and bike fit. Attention to glove selection, bar tape, and handlebar positioning can improve hand comfort and minimize pain and numbness.
Importance of Proper Fit and Understanding Asymmetries
A key takeaway from this podcast episode is the importance of getting a proper fit for your bike. It is emphasized that understanding your asymmetries and fixing them is crucial for comfort while riding. The discussion highlights the need for a well-fitting chamois, as well as other elements like gloves, handlebars, tape, shoes, and pedals. A specific example is provided for determining foot width by tracing the foot on a piece of paper and measuring the width at its widest part. The episode also mentions the invention of the body geometry shoe, designed to address forefoot angulation, and the idea that most cycling shoes require customization for optimal fit.
Considerations for Comfort: Shoe Sizing, Insoles, and Customization
Another major point discussed in the podcast is the importance of proper shoe sizing for overall comfort. The episode argues against fitting shoes like ballet slippers, with toes touching the end of the shoe, as this can lead to discomfort when the foot swells during a ride. The need for custom insoles and potentially utilizing wedges in shoes is highlighted, emphasizing the importance of bringing those accessories when trying on shoes. It is suggested that cycling shoes are essentially empty boxes that need customization for individual riders. Various factors like shoe material and adaptability are also mentioned as considerations for comfort.
We talk with Dr. Andy Pruitt and Larry Meyer about how to make yourself as comfortable as possible on the bike and why that helps, not hurts, performance.
