Back pain
Is back pain spoiling your ride? Don’t despair — there is a way to stop back pain when cycling.
Bike-related back pain
Nearly all back pain that occurs on the bike is down to a poor bike fit, which is good news! It means that nearly all back pain that occurs on the bike can be cured with a good bike fit.
The most obvious factor that can cause back pain is how “aggressive” your back angle is — how low you lean forward on the bike. Ideal angle depends on the type of riding you do, your flexibility and any relevant injury history. Look at the professional peloton and you’ll see very aggressive back angles achieved through years of training and adaptation. For most riders, holding those positions without pain simply isn’t sustainable.
Body-related back pain
The pelvis attaches to the lower back via the coccyx, and to some extent it controls how hard your back needs to work when you bend. Leaning forward needs the spine to flex and the pelvis to tilt forwards. If the pelvis is stiff, spinal joints overwork to compensate — and over time that excess stress causes pain or injury.
If you have pre-existing low back pain unrelated to cycling, there is still hope of a pain-free ride. Your bike fit becomes vital to reduce stress and load on joints and muscles so symptoms don’t flare in the saddle.
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