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INJURY PREVENTION CYCLING
and position has been a factor commonly cited as being a cause of injury at the knee (2). Significant changes in the evolution of cycling have formulated a float system allowing rotation within the shoe and pedal system. This has assisted in reducing the number of injuries, but still relies upon the cyclist to position them correctly in the first instance (7). Although the importance of
correct bike set-up has been widely acknowledged, the real challenge is in finding the correct cycling position incorporating all these factors whilst allowing for the individual differences of each cyclist. Methods have been formulated for obtaining correct set- up for each of the aforementioned variables. The complexity of such methods varies considerably and to date there is no universally agreed formula. Saddle height, for example, can be calculated using the ‘Inseam method’ or the ‘Greg LeMond method’, or a more simple approach using the heel position and leg length, the latter being much more easy to understand and perform (8). However many of these approaches are not very reliable, especially if the cyclist calculating the measurements is inexperienced. All of the saddle height formulas are estimates only and further adjustments may need to be undertaken (9). Measuring many of the other factors can be equally as challenging. Calculating the reach for the cyclist can be difficult as this often depends upon the cyclists own riding preferences as well as their natural posture. To date, little attention has been placed upon the concept of obtaining optimum reach (3). Much of the literature documented in scientific papers relating to correct bike set-up has not been proven empirically, with the majority of the literature based upon anecdotal
evidence. Further research is needed to substantiate such findings. Different measuring systems
have been formulated to assist this process such as ‘Fitkit’ and more recently ‘Cyclefit’ (9). A ‘Cyclefit’ is a comprehensive measuring system that integrates anthropometric measurements and a computer program. This formulates the exact position for the individual cyclist (3). However, this system has not been evaluated with regards to its reliability and validity and is currently only accessible through the ‘Cyclefit’ premises in London.
It is also important that the cyclist is comfortable when cycling. Cycling is a sport where cycling for many hours at a time is a normal occurrence. Adjusting the bike correctly is important to provide comfort, which will in turn encourage participation (8). As well as injury prevention and comfort, it is essential that bike set-up assists in enhancing performance, especially for those cyclists who begin to take their cycling more seriously. Although correct bike set-up information is readily available, the importance of the prevention of injuries is not emphasised. Much of the literature does not draw any parallels between bike set-up and the potential for injury. It is for this reason that the practical guide explains the potential correlation between correct bike set-up and injury prevention. Other factors such as promoting comfort and briefly discussing the importance of establishing the optimal position in order to enhance performance are also mentioned. The guide has been designed for
new cyclists and those who are more experienced. It allows cyclists to check their bike by looking at frame size, reach, saddle height and cleat position,
and provides a ten step guide on what to look out for in order to avoid injury. Cyclists new to the sport will gain basic information on how to get started with setting-up their bike and all cyclists will benefit from the advice on avoiding injury. The practical guide has been gathered from different sources, including scientific papers, bike shops and cycling clubs who often develop their own guidelines and make them available on the internet. All of the sources used have been cited.
KEY POINT The practical guide has been designed for new cyclists and those who are more experienced. It allows cyclists to check their bike by looking at frame size, reach, saddle height and cleat position, and provides a ten step guide on what to look out for in order to avoid injury.
References 1. Holmes J, Pruitt A, Whalen N. Lower extremity overuse in bBicycling. Clinics in Sports Medicine 1994;13(1):187-203 2. Gregor R, Wheeler J. Biomechanical factors associated with shoe/ pedal interfaces: Implications for injury. Journal of Sports Medicine 1994;17(2):117-131 3. Mestagh K. Personal perspective: In search of an optimum cycling posture. Applied Ergonomics 1998;29(5):325-334 4. Holmes J, Pruitt A, Whalen N. Iliotibial band syndrome in cyclists. American Journal of Sports Medicine 1993;21:419-421 5. Sanner W, O’Halloran W. The biomechanics, aetiology, and treatment of cycling Injuries. Journal of the American Podiatric Medical Association 2000;90(7):354-376 6. Bailey M, Maillardet , Messenger N. Kinematics of cycling in relation to anterior pain and patellar tendinitis. Journal of Sports Sciences 2003;21:649-657 7. Balthazaar B. The effect of shoe/pedal interface position on overuse knee injuries during cycling. Australasian Journal of Podiatric Medicine 2000;34(4):118-124 8. Burke E. Proper fit of the bicycle. Clinics in Sports Medicine 1994;1(13):1-13 9. Mellion M. Common cycling injuries: management and prevention.
Sports Medicine 1991;11(1):52-70.
FURTHER READING Too D. Biomechanics of cycling factors affecting performance. Sports Medicine 1990;10(5):286-302
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