Bike Fitting | IMPACT Physical Therapy Services & Treatments

   

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Bike Fitting

At IMPACT Physical Therapy, our professionals are experts in bike fitting, and will ensure you find the right fit for comfort and safety.

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How to Properly Fit A Bike

Bike riding is excellent exercise, especially for those who cannot handle the impact of running due to previous injuries. You can use your bike to see gorgeous views or run errands while ramping up your cardio.

Before you start, you need to be sure that you are comfortable on your bike. If not, you could end up with injuries and/or discomfort.

Steps to Proper Bike Fitting

Here are some things you need to have checked out before you begin a bike riding program:

  1. Sizing: Make sure your bike is the right size for you. You should be able to straddle the bike with your feet on the floor. Make sure you are wearing your cycling shoes when you check this, as they may add height.
  2. Seat/Saddle. You need to be sure the bike seat, also called the saddle, is level. If not, you may slide too far forward and cause discomfort in your hands, arms, and lower back. A tilt too far back can cause pain to your lower back and glutes. In addition, the saddle should also be a comfortable distance from the handlebars. If it is too close, extra weight will be placed on the mid-back and arms; too far away and you will have extra strain on the lower back and neck. Having the correct saddle height and position can make a world of difference and ensure a smooth, comfortable ride!
  3. Handlebars. You need to adjust your handlebars so that your back, shoulders, neck, and hands will be comfortable.  If your handlebars are too high, you’ll place more weight on the saddle. Taller riders should have lower handlebars in relation to the height of the saddle. Riders should re-examine their bicycle fit after falls or crashes because of possible movement of handlebars, brake hoods, cleats, or the saddle.
  4. Knee to Pedal. Another part of our services includes measuring the angle of your knee in relation to the pedal. The goal is to be as close to 35 degrees as possible when your foot is at the bottom of the pedal stroke. This will improve your function and eliminate stress to your knee.
  5. Foot to Pedal. We also want to be sure that the ball of your foot is placed as close as possible over the pedal spindle of the bike. This will help with your comfort and efficiency of riding.

Schedule a Bike Fitting

The only sure way to know if your bike fits correctly is through a professional bike fitting. If you’ve tried some of the tips above and are still experiencing pain or discomfort while riding your bike, call one of our Bike Fitting experts for an individualized fitting. 

 At IMPACT Physical Therapy & Sports Recovery, our professionals are experts in bike fitting and will ensure you find the right fit for comfort and safety. Contact us today to get started!

Locations performing this service

Lakeview , South Loop ,

Preventing or recovering from an injury can be difficult. Let IMPACT Physical Therapy help you get back in the game with our expert Physical Therapists. Contact us today to schedule a consultation!

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