By Coach John Hughes In 1986 Pete Penseyres set the solo transcontinental speed record of 3,107 miles (5,000 km) in 8 days, 9 hours and 47 minutes, which included all time on and off the bike! He averaged 15.40 mph (24.8 km/h). That record stood for 27 years. Christoph Strasser finally broke it in 2013, averaging 15.58 mph (25.74 km/h). Perhaps even more amazing than the … [Read more...] about Cycling Aches and Pains II: Upper Back, Shoulder, Neck Pain / Discomfort
Pain
How to Deal With Mid to Late Season Cycling Injuries
By Ricardo Colberg, M.D. The weather is gorgeous. The bike is running like a dream. The road is open and there’s nothing standing between you and a long ride. That is, until the pain sets in. But you’re in peak shape; you’ve been riding all summer. Your legs are strong. Your lungs are full. What could be the problem? It’s not at all uncommon for even the most seasoned … [Read more...] about How to Deal With Mid to Late Season Cycling Injuries
Medical Advice Re: ‘Trigger’ and ‘Gamekeeper’s’ Thumb
By Edward Fink, M.D. Trigger thumb arises when the sheath surrounding the tendon controlling thumb flexion becomes constricted and does not allow the tendon to glide freely as the thumb flexes and extends. This condition may occur in any digit and can arise from repeated trauma to the base of the thumb, although most often there is no precipitating cause. The tendon … [Read more...] about Medical Advice Re: ‘Trigger’ and ‘Gamekeeper’s’ Thumb
Why Do Long Climbs Hurt My Back?
Question: I'm training for RAMROD, a one-day event in Washington state. It covers 155 miles with three major climbs totaling 10,000 feet of vertical gain. My weekend training ride includes a tough climb of 6,000 feet that I've done all-out for three weeks. Now the nerves in my lower back are inflamed and I'm in pain even on the flats. I've had an expert bike fit, so bad … [Read more...] about Why Do Long Climbs Hurt My Back?
What’s My Correct Saddle Width?
Question: I'm a triathlete who has frequent problems with saddle sores. I wonder if they're caused by a discrepancy between the width of my sit bones compared to my saddle. I measured my sit bones (hard to do!), and they're about 100-115 mm apart. How should this measurement guide my saddle selection? -- Barry B. Coach Fred Matheny Replies: It's hard to know if … [Read more...] about What’s My Correct Saddle Width?