Congratulations to our very own Dr. Vincent for completing the recently concluded TD NYC 5 Boro Bike Tour!
Now that NYC 5-Boro Bike Tour has just finished and the GFNY Cycling is just around the corner, it is just timely to talk about cycling. Whether outdoor or indoor, cycling is a great sport and physical activity. Over the years, the health and societal benefits of cycling has been well documented in research (Kotler, Babu, and Robidoux, 2016). It has been shown to improve overall fitness, decrease risk of cardiovascular disease, obesity and cancer (Chavarrias et al, 2019). Societal benefits of cycling include reduced in air pollution, and decreased traffic accidents (Kotler, Babu, and Robidoux, 2016). Given its benefits, cycling also poses risk of injury. To prevent and/or minimize the risk of physical injury from cycling, there are some important factors to consider: type of cycling (recreational, transportation, competitive) which dictate the right gear, equipment to use and the skills required; nutrition and hydration; proper training; and proper gear.
Bike fit is another important factor to consider in cycling. Bike fit is the interface between the bicycle and the cyclist that affects the cyclist’s biomechanics (Kotler, Babu, and Robidoux, 2016). It includes the selection of bicycle’s frame geometry, saddle pedal system, and shape of handle bar based on the desired body position and function (Kotler, Babu, and Robidoux, 2016). Proper bike fit allows for comfort, efficiency and power generation (Kotler, Babu, and Robidoux, 2016).