Bike Fitting by Headquarters Physical Therapy is a Must
If you're a cyclist, you know that an ill-fitting bike can lead to a lot of discomfort and sensitivity. It's like trying to run in shoes that are too big or too small- it's just not going to work out well.
That's where professional bike fitting comes in. It's like having a personal stylist for your bike. A professional bike fitter will take a close look at your body and your bike to make sure they're working together in perfect harmony. It's like they're playing matchmaker, but for bikes and humans. The benefits of a professional bike fitting are numerous. You'll experience improved comfort, increased efficiency, and injury prevention. Plus, a professional bike fitting is personalized to your unique needs, so you'll feel like a rockstar on your bike. It's like having a custom-tailored suit, but for your two-wheeled chariot.
The first step in fitting is considering the rider's riding style and goals and if there are any current limitations, discomforts while riding, or current or previous history of injuries. Are they a recreational rider looking for comfort, or a competitive cyclist looking to optimize performance? This will determine the appropriate adjustments to the bike. The bike itself is then adjusted to fit the rider. This will include adjusting the cleats, saddle height and position, stem height and reach, and the position of the handlebars and braking hoods.
It is also important to consider the rider's foot position and shoe size first, working up the chain to end with adjustment of the upper extremities. Cleat position and the angle of the shoe can affect the rider's ability to comfortably and efficiently transfer power through the pedals as well as decrease foot, knee, hip and back pain. Bike fitting also includes a dynamic fitting, where the rider is observed while riding on a trainer or on the road to assess their riding position and make further adjustments as needed.
Investing in a professional bike fitting may seem like an unnecessary expense, but it can actually save you money in the long run. Think of it as preventive maintenance for your body and your bike. You don't want to wait until your bike falls apart or your body is in agony to take action. In conclusion, if you want to avoid feeling like a sardine in a can on your bike, get a professional bike fitting.