Liking Biking, Except It’s A Pain In The B**t

As I get more addicted to cycling I’m taking longer rides, and I pay for it out the other side…the backside, to be precise.

After a little research I realized that my cruiser saddle is probably the issue–the wide cushy back of the seat puts pressure on my coccyx.  The rest of my nethers are fine FYI, or TMI perhaps–but I’m reluctant to buy a more ergonomic saddle because, well, let’s face it: ergonomic saddles with cutouts for your tailbone don’t come in cute painted patterns like the saddle that came with The Bridal Bike.

How Can A Cruiser Be Such A Bruiser? A Fat Saddle Does Not Always A Comfy Ride Make.

So I tried moving my seat forward a little today, and it did seem to help–rode ten miles with reduced pain, though this might also be because I’m riding more frequently and building some strength/endurance, even around the bony bits.

Also experiencing reduced thigh pain this week; I have implemented a post-ride protocol that I believe helps.  As soon as I get home, I lie on the floor with my legs up against the wall or on a chair, for 5-10 minutes.  I learned this from a marathoner back when I ran some; the theory is “draining” the legs after exertion helps move soreness agents out (the lactic acid theory of soreness has been debunked, but some other mechanism might be triggered by reversing the blood flow after a long haul, I dunno.)  Maybe it’s a blood pressure thing, maybe placebo, who knows, but I like it.  After a ten-miler you deserve to lie down for a few minutes, don’t you think?

So listen you other oldtimers: get out there on the road!  Don’t worry if your bones bark a little at first–that’s going to happen with any new exercise once you’re over 30.  If a nearly 50-year-old broad with previous injuries and orthopedic problems like myself can start a cycling program, so can you.  Roll on, and see you on the bike path!

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