How to Prevent Saddle Sore: A Guide for Heavy Riders

When it comes to cycling, saddle soreness is most probably the number one complaint. On Facebook groups for cyclists, it is one of the most talked about. On the other hand, there is not enough advice to solve the problem.

Due to saddle sore, a lot of cyclists had serious swelling on the labial. As a result, they even had to undergo surgery. Some cyclists however, suffer from urinary tract damage, genital numbness and swelling.

After everything is said and done, prevention is always better than cure. So here are a few tips to avoid saddle sore for heavy riders:

1) Purchase the perfect saddle for you.

Choosing the right saddle for you is a personal thing. In short, the saddle of your choice may be a burden to another cyclist. As such, there is only one way to find out which one is best for you. That is by trying on a few saddles.

A few shops have saddle fit cushions that they are made out of memory foam. As a result, this will allow you to measure the distance between your sit bones. Thus, it will help you find the right saddle for you. If you are even luckier, a number of manufacturers allow you to have demonstrations you can borrow. Hence, you can have a test run and get the feel of the saddle.

Here is a common myth: larger ladies need bigger saddles. Nevertheless, women usually opt for cutaway or anatomic saddles with a hole carved. This is to ease the pressure on the affected area. It might backfire though. This is by revamping the pressure on the sides. Consequently, the pain will be even worse. This is when the labial numbness happens

2) Make sure that your saddle is on the right angle.

The rotation of the pelvis has a direct effect on the angle of your saddle. It is recommended that you start a new level on your saddle. If you do not feel good about it after a few miles, tip it slightly downwards.

3) Check to see if your bike suits you perfectly.

You can get soreness one side of your bottom. That happens when there is a difference on your leg length. As a result, your pelvis is deviating to make the shorter leg get to the pedal. It is best to get a piece of plastic or metal (also known as shim or wedge) that can be attached between the sole of your shoe and your cleat spikes. Then affix it to your pedals. In order to achieve the necessary height, a layer of couple of shims may be needed.

4) Cycle, cycle and cycle.

As the old saying goes, “Practice makes perfect”. The more you cycle, the lesser the pain because your muscles and tissues will get used to it.

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