Bike fit for older athletes: Why subtle changes might improve performance and enjoyment

Getting older is one of the certainties of life. Aging affects us all in different ways, partly due to genetics but mostly to do with lifestyle choices. In recent months I’ve been reading and writing about this a lot more, because I’m trying to find my own solutions to combat the inevitable as best I can.

 

The physios tell me that common issues they see in older athletes are reduced flexibility and range of movement which results in reduced ability to turn and look over the shoulder, a standard movement when driving or riding your bike. Increased tightness in the lower back, which means bending forward is more challenging. Tighter hips which means that squatting or lunging is more difficult.

 

Fortunately, cycling is a lot easier on the body than running and doesn’t require the same mobility as swimming. Nevertheless, reductions in mobility and flexibility can still present challenges when cycling. This is why I asked expert bike fitter Phil Burt to chat with me about adjustments that older riders could make to their bike set up to make cycling a little bit more comfortable, and therefore more enjoyable.

 

This is a great conversation with Phil, and we cover topics such as:

• being aero vs comfortable (11:00)
• shorter crank lengths (12:00)
• short nose saddles (36:30)
• pedal with more float(38:30)
• why disc brakes allow you to choose fatter tyres (46:20)

 

To find out more about Phil and the services he offers, please visit him at:

Website PhilBurtInnovation

Facebook - Philburtinnov

Twitter @PhilBurtInnov

Instagram PhilBurtInnov

YouTube Phil Burt Innovation

Linked In PhilBurtInnov

 

In this video, Phil explains his new approach to bike fit, performance, and comfort

 

Phil also recommended these books:

Start with Why by Simon Sinek 

Breath by James’s Nestor 

 

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