There are different pains you can experience from biking. Most people would say the worst is groin pain. It can be from a poor bike fit, the wrong saddle position, or a bad riding technique. And it can be so bad you might not want to ride very long. How bad is that? Thankfully, there are things you can do to treat this discomfort or keep it from happening in the first place.
Shop Related Products
Invest in a High-Quality Saddle
Your seat, aka your saddle, is the most personal part of your bike. It has to fit your body and riding style. Look for one with enough padding for your sit bones but not so much that it’s too soft. It has to be as wide as your pelvic region. And the shape has to support how your pelvis naturally rotates when you pedal.
Adjust the Position of Your Saddle
Even the highest-quality saddle doesn’t work if it’s not in the right position. Make sure it’s level and at the right height. Too high or too low, and it’ll cause unnecessary strain on your groin. Also, it should be positioned so most of your weight is on your sit bones and not your soft tissues.
Get Yourself Padded Bike Shorts
Another thing to invest in is high-quality padded bike shorts. They cushion your groin and reduce friction between your skin and saddle. Don’t wear underwear that’s too loose or has a lot of seams because it can bunch up and cause chafing.
Listen to Your Body and Take Breaks
If you’re uncomfortable or in pain, you can’t ignore it; it can cause more serious problems later on. Stand up and take a break until you feel better. If it persists, you might have to see a doctor or a bike fit specialist. They can figure out if you have underlying issues and advise you on improving your comfort.
Use Chamois Cream on Every Ride
Like a lube, Chamois cream is an anti-bacterial cream that reduces friction between your clothing and skin. It limits chaffing so you don’t get as many saddle sores. Apply a small amount to your skin or directly on the pads in your shorts before each ride.
Maintain Good Hygiene on Your Bike
Change out of your cycling clothes and take a shower immediately after each ride. This keeps bacteria from growing in sensitive areas and lowers your risk of saddle sores. Also, wash your clothes after every wear. If you can’t shower immediately, wipe off with a towel to eliminate sweat and bacteria.
Treat All Pain and Soreness
Treat it immediately if you’re experiencing pain or soreness in your groin area. Apply ice packs to the area to reduce swelling and discomfort. You can also use over-the-counter pain relievers. If the pain doesn’t go away, visit a doctor. Don’t ignore it, or it will lead to more serious problems, as mentioned above.
Get the Perfect Fit and Avoid Groin Pain at Airpark Bike Co
If you’re experiencing pain or discomfort while cycling, or you’re unsure about the fit of your ride, get professional help at our shop. A team member will carefully adjust your bike so it’s tailored to your height and weight. It might just be too big or too small for you. Then, we’ll guide you toward a model that fits your needs.
