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The Trochanter Trials: A Sore Story of Seating Snafus in Cycling

12.03.2023 by Scott Jangro // Leave a Comment

You know those secret glances we all share after a long ride? The kind where we gingerly dismount our bikes and sneak a hand to the back of the shorts, checking if our derrières have gone on strike yet? Yeah, we’ve all been there. It’s a bumpy ride in the world of cycling, and it’s not just the potholes we’re talking about.

Today, let’s talk about a common but lesser-known seat sore: the dreaded discomfort from sitting on the lower trochanters rather than the good ol’ sit-bones. Plop down comfortably at home, (we promise, no bike seats involved this time), and let’s explore the contours of this pain in the… well, you know where.

Anatomy Lessons Interrupted: Where are these Trochanters and Sit-Bones Anyway?

Before we unravel the twisted tale of sitting amiss, let’s make sure we’re on the same page anatomically. The sit bones, AKA the ischial tuberosities (doesn’t that roll off the tongue?), are the bony protrusions at the base of your pelvis. Quite literally, your built-in cushion for sitting.

The trochanters? Not so comfy.

They are two bony processes located on the femur (think part of the hip-thigh crew) right near the top. It’s where your gluteus maximus muscles attach. Bottom line (pun obviously intended) – your trochanters are great for moving around but terrible for perching your cycling self on them.

The Crux of the Problem: It’s Like Sitting on Stilts

Imagine trying to sit on top of two round-ish peaks (your lower trochanters) rather than settling into a stable base (your sit-bones). A precarious balancing act, right? That’s basically the issue.

Riding seated on your trochanters is like trying to balance two bowling balls on top of two golf tees. Possible? Maybe. Comfortable? Definitely not! Safe to say, it’s not winning you any brownie points with your bum.

The Why-dunnit: Poor Bike Fit, Posture, and More

“What’s pushing my cushion away from its throne?” I hear you ask, eyes glistening with desperation and ass-sociated discomfort. It’s a mix of factors. The main culprits? An ill-fitting bike or a saddle not suited to your divine derriere dimensions; poor cycling posture (yes, that dreaded slouch); a too-high saddle or handlebars, encouraging your pelvis to roll forward.

The Fantastic Fix: Getting to the Bottom of It

Now that we’ve got a grasp on why you might be sitting funny (and feeling funnier), let’s rectify this rear-end ruckus:

1. Bike Fit: Invest in a professional bike fitting. It’s like couple’s therapy for you and your bike – ensuring everything between you two aligns just right. Even if you think you have your bike fit properly, you may not. At the very least you stand to gain some power in your stroke. Not only will they check your position on the bike, they’ll often have you sit on a bit of memory foam so you can see what size saddle is best for you.

2. Saddle Selector: Experiment with saddles. What works for one behind might not work for another. You have to date around before committing to the right saddle.

3. Perch Properly: Keep a check on your posture. Hint: cycling should not resemble a Quasimodo impression. Aim to keep your back flat and sit back onto your saddle, anchoring on those sit-bones.

4. Technique Tune-Up: When you’re mashing pedals like there’s a bull chasing you, consciously remind yourself – “Sit bones, folks, sit bones!”

So, folks. Here ends our tale of trochanter trouble. Let’s promise our dear sit-bones that from this day forth, they will be the rightful king and queen of the saddle throne. And as for those trochanters – only walking and dancing duties henceforth!

Remember, in the grand dictionary of cycling, comfort is not a dirty word. Adjust, adapt, and soon you’ll be gliding rather than grimacing. Until next time, happy (and comfortable) cycling!

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Categories // Bike fit, soreness Tags // anatomy, posture, saddle sore

Spin Versus Glide: Stationary Cycling vs Rowing Machine Showdown

12.02.2023 by Scott Jangro // Leave a Comment

So, you’re standing in your cozy, sweat-ready home gym, staring at the open space where the next piece of dreamy workout gear will go – but what should it be? A stationary bike to keep your chain-spinning addiction alive indoors, or a rowing machine to rule the (imaginary) waves?

Glad you asked, because today we’re diving into a knock-down, drag-out battle of the exercise machines: stationary cycling versus rowing. Let’s tackle this point by point, shall we?

The Calorie Inferno Dance-off

First, let’s talk about the calorie cook-off. A vigorous workout on both machines can definitely torch calories, but if you’re after the heavyweight champion, rowing takes the cake (and then helps you burn it off too). The full-body effort involved in rowing tends to scorch more calories per minute than cycling. But hey, if you’re more about the joy of the ride than the digits on your calorie tracker, then pedal away!

The Muscular-sculpting Million Dollar Question

Which of these trusty devices gives a better muscular workout? Well, padawan, it’s about focus. Stationary cycling has a hearty emphasis on lower body and cardiovascular conditioning, while rowing is more of a total-body workout, recruiting your legs, core, and upper body. In this case, it’s like choosing between a delicious pizza and a full buffet—they’re both delightful, just in different ways.

The Skinny on Weight Loss

Both machines can help you wave goodbye to pounds if used in combination with a balanced diet. But remember, it’s not just about how much you burn during your workout, it’s also about what kind of workout revs your engine to keep you coming back for more. If blasting through a soundtrack of spinning beats gets you moving, then the stationary bike is your jam!

The Cost of A Great Sweat

Now we’re talking brass tacks. Stationary bikes tend to vary widely in price. You could nab a bare-bones model for less dough, or splash out for a deluxe spin bike. Rowing machines often clock in at lower prices, especially if you go the magnetic or hydraulic rower route. So, like always in life, it depends on what kind of moths live in your wallet.

The Room to Roam Rumpus

Got space? A rowing machine usually requires a tad more footprint than a bike when in use. But, many rowing machines fold up or stand up when off-duty, becoming a slim, spine-like sculpture in your room. Check your space before committing, but remember: every home has room for fitness. You might just need to be a tad creative!

The Time to Shine Dilemma

Both options give an amazing workout within 30-45 minutes. You might hang around longer on a bike catching up with your favorite series (ahem, Les Mills or Peloton anyone?), while an intense row could leave you happily exhausted quicker. Although remember, our trusty buddy Einstein did say time is relative…

The Easy-peasy Lemon Squeezy Conundrum

If you’re a newbie, well, hats off for deciding to get moving! Cycling tends to have a more gentle learning curve, whereas rowing requires a bit more technique to master (but hey, who doesn’t love a challenge?). You can always start slow and work your way up. Remember, no one’s born with cleats on!

The Prep and Go Tussle

Which machine requires more prep time? Both are more or less jump-on-and-go (oh, the beauty of home workouts). You might wrap your hands around a towel for grip on the rower handle, or kit yourself up with cycle shoes for your bike—depends on your level of, how shall we say, “I’m gonna crush this!”

The Symbiotic Symphony

Finally, can they complement each other? “Oh, my yes,” whispers the wind, the grass, and every hard-core cross-trainer. Both work endurance and utilize distinct muscle groups—which means together, they’re like a perfect peanut butter and jelly sandwich of workout options.

So pedalheads, there you have it. Be it spinning the wheels or ruling the waves (kinda), the victor in the stationary bike vs rowing machine showdown is entirely dependent on your goals, space, budget, and how you like to get that heart pumping.

Until next time, stay fit, stay happy, and remember, the best machine is the one you’re gonna use. Now, go break a sweat!

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The 10 Best Holiday Gifts For That Road Cyclist in Your Life

12.01.2023 by Scott Jangro // Leave a Comment


Dear cycling enthusiasts and the wonderful people who put up with (and spoil) them,

Tis’ the season to be jolly and upgrade your road cyclist’s gear stash. From high-tech gadgets that make Batman envious to comfort-boosters that melt away saddle soreness, here’s our ten best holiday gifts for your beloved pedal-pushing maniac. Fair warning, though, you might be tempted to take up the sport yourself after eyeballing these babies!

Click the image to get pricing on Amazon! I will get a small commission at no additional cost to you.

1. Garmin Edge 530 – The Guardian Angel

This GPS device offers tracking, navigation, performance analytics, and even incident detection! It’s a personal cycling assistant that doubles as a guardian angel. Shove it in a stocking, or wrap it like the crown jewel you know it is.

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2. Castelli Perfetto ROS Convertible Jacket – The Wardrobe Wonder

This clever piece of kit keeps the rider comfortable when they’re battling the elements. Plus, its sleeves are detachable. Chilly? Sleeves on. Getting warm? Sleeves off. It’s like having a tiny wardrobe on your ride.

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3. Fi’zi:k Infinito R1 Shoes – Footwear Fit for a Pedal King

Give the gift of high performance (and insanely stylish) cycling footwear. The Infinito R1s blend style, performance, and comfort – because in the world of cycling, style points do indeed equal real points.

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4. Park Tool PCS-10.2 Home Mechanic Bicycle Repair Stand – Maintenance Made Sexy

A high-quality bike stand makes maintenance way more accessible (and exciting), and the PCS-10.2 is a home-mechanic dream. If you’re worried about wrapping this up, just slap a bow on it and watch their face light up.

[lasso ref=”amzn-park-tool-pcs-10-2-home-mechanic-bicycle-repair-stand-aluminum” id=”15643″ link_id=”2140″]

5. Oakley Sutro Lite Sunglasses – The Fashion Frontier

Cyclists can never have too many pairs of sunglasses. Oakley’s Sutro Lites look like they’ve been designed by a hip team of aliens. Funky, functional, and UV protecting!

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6. Lizard Skins DSP 2.5mm Bar Tape – Plumage for the Bike

Improve the comfort and customization of the bike with this quality bar tape. In an array of colors, it’s like changing the bike’s plumage!

[lasso ref=”amzn-amazon-10″ id=”15645″ link_id=”2142″]

7. Castelli Men’s Entrata VI Jersey – Comfort Made Cool

With its combination of durability, functional design, and stylish detailing, this jersey is a crowd pleaser. Christmas dinner may end up being served with everyone tidy in their new Rapha jerseys.

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8. Wahoo Elemnt Bolt Bundle – Power to Your Pedal

Looking to splurge on your cycling nut? The Elemnt Bolt bundle comes with their top-rated GPS unit, heart rate monitor, and speed/cadence sensors. It’s the package deal to rule them all!

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9. Giro Peloton Cap – Adding Pedigree to the Ride

A classic cap with a modern twist, perfect for keeping the sweat at bay and the style points sky-high.

10. Snow Peaks Titanium Flask – The Cyclist’s Shot of Fun

For the road cyclist who appreciates a tipple post-ride, this lightweight, compact flask is a perfect, fun gift. Who said cyclists can’t enjoy small luxuries? This one’s a serious luxury!

[lasso ref=”amzn-amazon-8″ id=”15640″ link_id=”2145″]

Well, there you have it! Stuff these gifts in a stocking, under the tree, or perhaps a bike pannier repurposed as holiday décor. Either way, you’re sure to get a standing ovation from your road-cycling fanatic.


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