Ride comfy into summer with some commuter tips, saddle sore solutions & more!
Hey everyone!
I rode in shorts this week... and I actually got a (hint of) a tan line. Yep, summer is almost here. And while that makes me so happy I could cry, it also means that it's the time of year I always contend with some saddle issues, thanks to more time in the saddle, more sweat, and more fun, exploration rides with friends that end up muddy, covered in pond water (always), and definitely a lot more chamois time than I get in the winter. Plus... I'm doing an Ironman in July (eek!) so I'm training A LOT in a really aggressive position on the saddle. So, when you have issues and come to SaddleSoreWomen.com, know that I really, truly feel your pain.
But enough of my confessions: I want to hear from you guys. I added a button under this note so you can email me, because I am dying to know what you're into these days. What kind of content are you hoping to see over at SaddleSoreWomen.com? What kind of articles would be helpful?
Ride Comfortable & Ride Happy,
Molly
Your Commuter Problems, Solved
The question: "I commute to work and I'm having some minor sores and chafing issues, even though it's a short ride. Help!"
Don't stress. We've got some solutions.
I'd say the biggest issue is that you're getting a bit chafed during your ride and then staying in your sweaty gear/underpants with the same panty line that you rode in for your shift.
First, look at your commuter bike fit. The odds are good that something—saddle or saddle height—could use some tweaking. Most of us dial in our road bike and mountain bike fits, but ignore our regular, trusty commuter. You don't need to pay for a fit if that's not in the budget, but do take some time tweaking it for max comfort. And definitely consider swapping saddles!
Next: Just switch out your underwear when you get to work (a pain, but I think it'll make a difference) and opt for ones that hit a different spot (i.e if you wear typical bikini knickers to ride, wear a hipster pair or a thong or just a slightly different pair). That way, you're avoiding chafing the same area, and swapping out the pair that's already gotten sweaty.
If that doesn't work, or you want a more intensive solution, I would swap the in-ride knickers for Chaffree women's boxer briefs ... I really liked them since they're more properly cut for riding (and the coupon code Saddlesore will still get you 15% off!)... And if that STILL doesn't work, brands like Club Ride have knickers/boxer briefs with actual chamois in them that you could wear to work and change out of.
You could also just wear your normal cycling shorts to work and do a quick Superman-in-phone-booth style change at the office!
Bottom line is just going to be riding in one pair, and swapping out. You might also want to look at your pants and see if any seams are rubbing in the wrong place, and maybe swap pants too.
Last thought: if changing at work is absolutely impossible, I'd maybe try wearing a pad with wings when riding to change the pantyline without actually changing said panties, then taking it off when you get to work.
Happy riding!
Check out Shred-Girls.com for more details!
Recurring Saddle Sores—Why They Happen and What to Do About Them
If you have the same saddle sore that keeps coming back, it's time to make a change.
Read about a few easy solutions here.
Feeling Like Your Fitness Needs a Kick Start?
I’m so excited that SmartAthlete Coach Peter Glassford has partnered with me to make a great training plan for my readers! In it, we incorporate many of the training concepts from “Saddle, Sore” into a 3-month training plan designed to help any cyclist, but especially someone new to structured training, get fitter, stronger, and ready to crush her goals for the season. It also has gentle reminders about making sure you’re taking care of your body and your bike in addition to simply putting in the training hours.
It's an inexpensive way to experiment with if coaching is right for you, so don't miss out!
Check out the plan here.
Get in touch with other women cyclists, ask any of the questions you've always wanted to ask on our Facebook Page, plus find out about events & other fun stuff!
If you don't already have a copy of Saddle, Sore, you can buy one here.
Host a Talk!
We spent 2016 traveling around the country giving talks on nutrition, lady parts and everything riding-related. We've talk awkward questions, women's cycling, and any training and nutrition questions you have—and hung out to drink some wine! Make your 2017 awesome and have your won Ladies Night with your local shop or club. Fill out the form here to get in touch.
Discounts for Readers
Save 25% on Cat's Tongue Towels
Cat’s Tongue Towels are always go in my saddlebag and my race bag before rides and trips. They’re designed to get grease off, whether it’s off of your hands when you have to stop to change a flat (anyone else end up with grease smeared on their face after a ride?) or off your bike where the chain left a mark, the towels work really well. I LOVE the individually wrapped ones for rides and when we fly places, but the canister is perfect for sticking in your car and having at all times.
Check them out at catstonguetowels.com and use the code MOLLY for a 25% discount!
20% Off Petal Power Chamois Cream
I'm super excited that Petal Power is offering SaddleSoreWomen.com readers a 20 percent off discount on chamois cream—stock up! I love their Joy Ride System—it has a pre-ride cleansing wipe, a fantastic chamois cream, and a post-ride shower gel. Cannot recommend their stuff enough!
Check it out at petal-power.com and use code SADDLESOREWOMEN for a discount!