Question: I’m a roadie who discovered mountain biking as great off-season training. I lost 20 pounds since last fall and was determined to hit the road strong this spring. Then I tangled with a car. Fortunately, I must have learned something from those mountain bike crashes because I didn’t break anything. I’m anticipating a clean…
Question: Yesterday I went down hard on a sharp downhill curve. Ouch! Nine stitches in my left hand and I have a hip sprain. What’s the best way to recover? — Tom B. Coach Fred Matheny Replies: The usual advice is to pump ibuprofen to reduce pain and swelling. Apply ice to your hip (and…
Question: I crashed a month ago, sustained a type-3 AC joint separation and had surgery. My physician says I have to wear a sling. I don’t want to lose any more fitness. Can I ride the trainer one-handed? When I can ride outside again, and how should I begin rebuilding my fitness? I was in…
Question: This is a rather sensitive question. I’m a male who gets severely chafed nipples on rides. Sometimes they even bleed. I lube them with petroleum jelly but it rubs off in 20 miles. Anything else short of a padded bra that I can try? — Steve J. Coach Fred Matheny Replies: I don’t think…
Question: I’m wearing a turtleneck under my jersey on chilly rides. It’s irritating the heck out of the skin on my neck. What can I do to lessen the abrasion? — Blaine B. Coach Fred Matheny Replies: First, check the material. It might be rougher than you can find in other turtlenecks. Some fabric is…
