Let’s be honest, sometimes it can get a little bit uncomfortable in the saddle. Especially if you haven’t been in it for a while (or ever) or just if you are there for an extended period of time. But, good news, there are ways to minimize “that” feeling.

Three areas effect down under (Gluteus Maximus and other areas close by) comfort the most when bicycle riding, indoors or out. These three areas are chafing, numbness and pain. We will tackle each area separately.

By far chafing is the easiest to fix with padded bicycle shorts. Bicycle shorts should not be tight or binding but the overall fit needs to be snug. Also, no underwear should be worn with bicycle shorts. More expensive bicycle shorts use better quality materials and will last longer. If chafing is still a problem with bicycle shorts, apply anti-chafe cream to the problem area.

If numbness (Perineal Nerve) is a problem while bicycle riding, two areas can be checked. First, make sure the seat angle is level with the ground. Second, purchase a bicycle seat with a vertical split between the left and right sides of the seat or a middle cutout to reduce numbness.

Pain is the hardest problem to fix and most of the time, sit bones (Ischial Tuberosities) are the cause. Most original equipment bicycle seats are designed to fit an average width between each sit bone. However, most bicycle seat manufactures offer different widths. Before spending a lot of money purchasing a different bicycle seat, visit a bicycle shop and have your sit bones measured. Even with your sit bones measured, several bicycle seats may need to be tried before reducing pain. Some high-quality bicycle shops have a seat loaner program to help with proper seat selection.

Trial and error may be needed since all three problem areas could overlap. Please remember, just because a bicycle seat looks comfortable, it may not meet your pain reduction needs.

Enjoy the ride, indoors or out!