Do you want to try bike riding for fitness, but don't know if cycling is the right activity for you? Learn more about the benefits of biking here.
What type of bicycle do you need? Far be it from anyone here at the Antisocial Network to give medical advice (except, perhaps, when it comes to correcting common dumbassery). When it comes to your health and your body, we think you should stick to getting advice from professionals; by which we mean doctors, nurses, physical therapists, and other trained professionals; not a "professional freelancer" with a BFA in film. That's why today's DotD nominee is one such freelancer, Breann Kanobi¹, and we caught her attempting answer the eternal question, "How do I Choose the Correct Bicycle After Hip Replacement Surgery? " at SportsRec.com A hip replacement is serious stuff, and we strongly recommend that anyone who needs post-operative advice talk to the surgeon or a physical therapist, not cruise over to eHow.com (which is where this dreck was originally posted). We did some research, though, and we found a lot of inconsistent advice: MTB forums all seem to say road cycling is bad; road cycling forums seem to say that mountain biking is bad. It just goes to show you that you can't trust forums... You probably can't trust Kanobi, either. Given some of the statements in her post, it's a reasonable assumption that she is unfamiliar with both body mechanics and bicycle design. For instance, there's, "Chose a road bicycle over a mountain bike. Road bicycles require you to put less pressure on your hip flexors and are lighter, making them easier to maneuver." In fact, the upright riding position of mountain bikes may well put less stress on the hip flexors than the more aerodynamic position of a road bike. Kanobi then contradicted herself, saying, "You may want to choose a cruiser style bicycle..." That after saying that road bikes are lighter: cruisers are among the heaviest bicycle styles. Next, Breann said, "Always chose a bicycle with an adjustable seat..." We polled the staff, and everyone here is pretty certain that it's impossible to find a bicycle without an adjustable seat! After that bit of dumbassery, Kanobi just regurgitated some basic bicycle-fitting instructions and a blanket post-op warning about pain. The only useful information she provided is to raise the seat a little higher than normal. She neglected, however, to warn people not to try to swing a leg over the seat when mounting.² Given her contradictory suggestions and her tenuous grasp on the basic design of bicycles, we submit that Kanobi is perfectly qualified to be just another Dumbass of the Day (again). ¹ Help me, oh Breann... ² We suspect that means using a step-through (i.e., "girl's") frame or standing on the pedal to reduce that "swing height." copyright © 2019-2023 scmrak SE - HEALTH
If you have read my blogs posts on cycle syncing (if not they are linked here !), you are familiar with the benefits that cycle syncing has, not only for your menstrual cycle, but for you whole body physically and mentally. The benefits are truly endless. A quick recap: Cycle syncing is adapting
Looking for books about cycling? I've got the perfect gift recommendations right here. Or treat yourself? If you love cycling you'll enjoy these!
The more people cycle, the less likely they are to be fat. There is a clear connection between cycling and weight, judging by international stats.
Learn about the top benefits of taking indoor cycling (spinning) classes including burning calories, building muscle, and more!
If you have read my blogs posts on cycle syncing (if not they are linked here !), you are familiar with the benefits that cycle syncing has, not only for your menstrual cycle, but for you whole body physically and mentally. The benefits are truly endless. A quick recap: Cycle syncing is adapting
by John Marsh Road bicycles are just that, bikes made for efficiently riding on roads. You’ll know a road bike when you see one. It’s characterized by its sleek look, with dropped, curving handlebars, narrow wheels and “skinny” tires, a small seat and lots of cogs, or gears, on the back wheel. Typically, road bikes […]
Looking for a new adventure companion? This article will showcase 10 of the best touring bikes available on the market in 2023!
Have you ever noticed how much your hormones impact your mood, energy levels, body image, and even how your body looks? If you’re someone who menstruates, you’ve likely had days where your cycle has impacted your workout plans, or had questions about how and when you should exercise during your period. While the most common question tends to focus on whether or not you should be working out during your period, research shows there’s more to it than that! Hormonal changes throughout your menstrual cycle can have a range of effects on energy levels and exercise performance, and particular forms of exercise can be better than others depending on what phase you are in: menstruation, follicular, ovulation, or luteal. 1. The Menstruation Phase. It’s that time of the month — the menstrual phase. This is when you’re menstruating, or when you’re actually on your period. It typically lasts 3-7 days at the end of your cycle but let's just start here since it's the one we all wonder about. How can you best support your body movement while menstruating? If you experience fatigue during the early days of your period, you may not feel like doing much intense exercise. Your progesterone and estrogen levels are at their lowest which will contribute to feeling more tired than normal. You could be feeling cramps, tender breasts, bloating, mood swings, lower back pain, irritable, etc. You may want to reschedule your workouts or do some gentle movement instead. You may have heard mixed messages about how you should exercise, or if you should work out at all while menstruating. For me it actually helps to get my body moving and just do gentle exercises to stretch. There is also research that shows exercising during your period actually helps with period pain. Keep in mind that everyone is so different. Your body and your nutrition can greatly effect how intense your periods are. Ultimately, what you choose to do is up to you and how you feel. You have to listen to your body! If you choose to exercise during your period and are feeling low in energy, it may be a good idea to reduce the intensity of your workouts. Here are some great lower intensity workouts that keep you moving in your menstruation phase: Yoga poses and/or stretching - It's a great way to relax your body and mind! Child's pose, reclined spinal twist, and cat-cow all poses that can help to relieve tension in your lower back and pelvis. Try THIS great hip opening flow with Elise Jones. Walking or light cardio - Walking is a great activity any time but if you're used to running, walking or slow jogging are great options to scale back the intensity. Light upper strength training - This is not the phase to push yourself too hard. Consider reducing your weights if you are feeling too fatigued where you're currently at. What's going on mentally in the menstruation phase? Personally I am more prone to self-doubt, tend to pick myself apart more, am more emotional, etc. It's easy to be tempted to quit your plan and eat everything in sight. Don't do it! Expect that you will feel more hungry and have cravings so you can expect it but don't go crazy. Related: 9 Ways to Raise Your Vibration 2. The Follicular Phase. Now that your period is over you're in the follicular phase. This is typically days 1-11 of your cycle. After menstruation is over your estrogen levels get a big boost as your body prepares to release an egg, which is usually associated with increased energy, which means this is a great time of the month to challenge yourself and try new things in your routine. Here are some higher intensity workouts that maximize the energy you'll feel in your follicular phase: High Intensity Interval Training (HIIT) High energy, fast-paced, and fun, this is a great time to incorporate HIIT workouts into your routine while your energy levels are high. Boxing Great way to let out some energy and try something new! Strength Training This is the time of your cycle to push yourself in your strength training! Think heavier weights or push-ups on toes instead of knees. If you're new to strength training, start with bodyweight exercises to get yourself going. What's going on mentally in the follicular phase? You'll have lots of energy and you'll feel strong! The bloating of your period has gone away so you're feeling like yourself again. Your hormones are more leveled out and it's easier to feel happier. You're on top of the world, enjoy it! Related: Back and Biceps Killer, 500 Rep Full Body Workout 3. The Ovulation Phase. Typically the shortest phase (falling somewhere around days 12-17 in your cycle), the ovulation phase is when you'll still have high levels of estrogen so that means a few more days living on the high energy! Like the follicular phase you'll be enjoy feeling at your best so here are so ways you can switch up your movement to capitalize: Swap your cardio - If you usually cycle, try running. If you've been doing HIIT workouts, do some circuits. Go for those PRs! - You are going to feel strong so use it to tear some muscle fibers and really push yourself in your strength training. Go up in your weights, I promise you'll be able to lift more than you think you can. Related: Challenge Yourself What's going on mentally in the ovulation phase? Enjoy the confidence! I feel so good and love to give my husband all the attending, my libido is usually really high. Your stomach is done with the period bloating and you can feel really good about your pace and efforts. Your lens is brighter so enjoy the sunny view! 4. The Luteal Phase. This is the last phase of your cycle before you're back to menstruation and lasts around 12-14 days. Towards the beginning you'll still be coming down from your ovulation energy and that will decrease as you approach menstruation. Your progesterone will peak which can make you feel drowsy and like things are just harder. This is the phase you'll experience the dreaded PMS symptoms leading up to your period. Here are some great ways to stay on track with your movement while transitioning from your higher energy phases to lower energy phases: Yoga or pilates - These are both good options to increase overall strength and release muscle tension. Lower intensity cardio - Don't be afraid to use swimming, walking or jogging, lower intensity elliptical, etc as your movement as you move to a lower energy. These are all very adaptable to how you're feeling. Stay steady in your weight training - Don't worry about hitting PRs if you're not up to it at the end of your phase. Stay consistent - Consistency is your best friend during this phase. Stay consistent in showing up for your workouts remember this is a phase of transition. What's going on mentally in the luteal phase? Be ready to push past the mental block in your workouts. You'll feel like you aren't able to push yourself like before, but that's okay! Towards the end of the phase you'll likely start those PMS symptoms like bloating, headaches, cravings, or trouble sleeping to name a few. Your emotions can fluctuate quickly so be patient with yourself (and others). Anticipate and recognize these changes as you transition and you won't feel surprised when these normal parts of your cycle come around. Remember, knowledge is power. How well do you know your cycle? If you're new to tracking your cycle, try doing it for a couple months and notice how you feel in each phase and how you find yourself adjusting your activity levels. Be aware of the mental and emotional tendencies you find in each phase so you can prepare for them and be your own best support! Once you understand your body and mental changes throughout your cycle you're better able to plan for and accommodate your cycle in your workouts and your mental health. Get to know you body's cycle and trust it! Get to know how the different phases of your cycle influence your energy levels, mood, and movement. If you feel that your cycle isn't regulating well, reach out to your doctor. Being a woman isn't always easy, but I honor and love the cycle of strength and renewal our bodies experience and I hope you can too! If you are interested in safe, specialized training for women, visit our programs page. Bree is a certified personal trainer as well as certified in nutrition, mindfulness and meditation, and behavioral change coaching. The BodyByBree 8 Week Training Programs are designed to support holistic health for women by teaching sustainable habits in movement, nutrition, and mindset that give you the tools to enjoy a lifetime of health.
How to cure cycling knee pain with an amazingly effective and very cheap cure for cycling knee pain; works for all kinds of knee pain.
Indoor cycling is all about having fun, challenging your cardiovascular fitness, and having a safe and effective ride!
How much does it cost to cycle around the world? You can cycle around the world for less than $10 a day or go crazy with your budget. It's up to you!
We love to hear all about your cycling stories, thank you for being great SPOKESwomen for Breeze!
Cycle Syncing has so many benefits. It can help with mood, energy levels, hormone balance, reducing PMS symptoms, weight loss, productivity, libido and more.
The blog of Adventure Cycling Association. Learn new skills and discover amazing bicycle stories.
So I was really disgusted by that. Both of these instructors just made the class really unpleasant. Is that what all spinning instructors are like, because… I’m not about that life.
In this article, you learn and discover the benefits of cycling and why you should cycle for exercise.
Average Joe Cyclist is a blog for people like us. People who love cycling, but who are unlikely to ever win any races, and who don’t necessarily look good in Lycra! My wife Maggie and I have cycled for decades for fun and good health. We share what we have learned in our blog. Free […]
During the late 19th century, women began to escape some restrictions by riding bikes, so that bicycles played a role in women's emancipation
After 10 years and 74 countries, one of my bike traveling heroes shares her tips, hopes, and fears.
This guide to bike touring Croatia should help you plan a bicycle trip in Croatia, whether for a few days or a few weeks.
Cycle Syncing has so many benefits. It can help with mood, energy levels, hormone balance, reducing PMS symptoms, weight loss, productivity, libido and more.
This post highlights and compares 7 of the best waterproof cycling jackets for men and women for cycling in rainy weather.
This is a post and video about the remarkable role that bicycles have played in military history. We are publishing it to honor Memorial Day.
Challenging terrain is a necessary part of cycling. These tips will hep you harness your power and get over the hills.
Despite the diversity in pro cycling, several traits and experiences unite all pro cyclists. Here are 10 things you probably didn’t know about the pros.
If you’re a person with a menstrual cycle, you’re probably familiar with some of the ups and downs you feel around certain phases! The ebbs and flows in your energy levels, moods, physical experience, and willingness to do certain tasks. Cycle syncing is about recognizing that all of these phases
Spinning® may conjure “fun” to some and “sweat” to others. Yet no one can deny the extensive list of health and fitness benefits of Spinning® – including though not limited to physical, mental and even social boons. From slimming down the physique you see in the mirror to the invigorating experience of a Spinning® class with like-minded fitness enthusiasts…the list of benefits is extensive.
Looking for books about cycling? I've got the perfect gift recommendations right here. Or treat yourself? If you love cycling you'll enjoy these!
Ten of our favorite bike cartoons, comic strips, and animated cycling features.
Learn what stress actually is, the symptoms of stress, and 5 ways to reduce your stress to restore your nourishment.
How to cure cycling knee pain with an amazingly effective and very cheap cure for cycling knee pain; works for all kinds of knee pain.
Over the past decade, electronic shifting has quickly grown in popularity. This guide outlines the pros and cons of electronic vs mechanical shifting to help you decide which type of drivetrain is best for your style of riding. I’ll also outline a few of the more popular electronic shifting systems including Shimano Dura Ace Di2 and Ultegra Di2,Sram Force eTap AXS and eTap RED AXS, and Campagnolo EPS systems.
Some of the hidden facts about biking that you need to know before you start bike-riding are revealed in this blog post. Let's find out.
This complete bike touring packing list will get you through every adventure, and, it's what we're packing right now! Getting your bike touring kit list right is pretty damn crucial. Whether you're a seasoned tourer
If you have questions about biking downhill, this is your spot. In this post, you'll learn the best ways to bike downhill safely.
Average Joe Cyclist is a blog for people like us. People who love cycling, but who are unlikely to ever win any races, and who don’t necessarily look good in Lycra! My wife Maggie and I have cycled for decades for fun and good health. We share what we have learned in our blog. Free […]
Can you enjoy the efficiency of clipless pedals while keeping your setup practical for travel? Here's the scoop on clipless pedals for bikepacking and touring.
Cycling in Spain Guide. All you need to know to plan the perfect Spanish cycling holiday is here, from bike routes to hotels and travel tips.
All About Cycling in SloveniaMountain Biking Trails [MTB], DIY Bike Touring, Bikepacking Routes, Road Cycling Lubljana, Lake Bled, and the Alps Thinking of bike touring Slovenia? That's a great idea. Slovenia is indeed the perfect
The best cycling sunglasses for all budgets are reviewed! How to choose the right bicycle glasses. Photochromic, polarized, cheap, affordable, best value, pro brands It doesn't matter if you ride your bicycle on a daily
Here are 5 reasons to plan a cycling holiday in the UK - a lovely, friendly country. Read about planning a family cycling holiday in the UK.
Find out how to get started in the virtual cycling world of Zwift with our complete guide
