Making Avid Bike Riding More Comfortable: Tips To Prevent Muscle Aches And Chafing

If you love riding your bike, you probably don't love your sore buttocks, chafing in between your thighs, and the muscle aches that can come along with long, strenuous rides. There are ways you can protect your skin against rubbing and sweat and ways you can keep your muscles limber and strong so you can push yourself to the max every day.

Chamois cream

In case you don't know, the chamois is the area of your bicycle shorts that is padded for the comfort of your derriere. A true chamois is made of leather, but many styles of bicycle shorts are made of synthetic padding. Chamois cream for cyclists is typically made of coconut oil, witch hazel, and Aloe Vera gel to lubricate the chamois areas of bicycle shorts for more comfortable riding. This cream makes your padded seat more pliable and gives it better movement, and also allows you to have less friction between your skin and your shorts' material. If you don't want to chafe and want to have a comfortable ride no matter how far you travel, you may want to carry chamois cream with you.

Moisture-wicking clothing

You want your clothing to be made of pure cotton or a moisture-wicking substance that will help prevent sweat from accumulating under your armpits, in your groin, and along your decollete. The less sweat you have accumulating on your skin, the less chance you have of getting a nasty heat rash or uncomfortable chafing. Seek clothing that fits you exactly right without being too snug so you don't have loose clothing rubbing against you as you cycle. This also helps prevent skin irritation.

Electrolyte drinks

Consuming drinks that are comprised of electrolytes can help prevent muscle fatigue while cycling. Since electrolyte drinks replenish the sodium and nutrients naturally lost when sweating, your body can remain in better balance. Your muscles require sodium to contract and move, and drinking electrolyte-infused beverages can help keep you in balance, which helps keep your muscles limber.

If you do not have access to these kinds of beverages, try to avoid too-sugary drinks, which can actually make you more dehydrated. Instead, stick to plain water as you cycle so you can stay properly hydrated. This will help prevent muscle fatigue, cramping, and pain.

If you love cycling, you want to find ways you can do this kind of rigorous exercise more easily. The right beverages, chamois cream for your shorts and skin, and well-fitting clothing can all help to make your bicycling experience great every time.

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