Do your hands go to sleep when you ride a bike?

We explain how to avoid numb hands when riding a bicycle

Trek gives us Five tips to reduce and avoid numbness of the hands when riding a bicycle.

Usually this occurs when a nerve in the wrist or elbow is compressed

This problem, very common among cyclists, is usually due to the pedaling posture, so we are going to give you some tips to optimize your posture, something that is especially important for longer rides.

Change the position of the hands

Road handlebars allow place your hands in three positions.

Changing your position will help relieve and even prevent numbness in your hands.

Climbers:

When you put your hands on the climbers.

This position allows you to access the brakes and shifting without having to be as aggressive as when placing your hands on the ends of the handlebars.

Most riders put their hands on the climbers for most of the ride.

Handlebar ends:

When you put your hands on the curved end of the handlebar.

This position is the one that is usually used to better control the bike on the descents.

The hands should only be placed on the curved part for short periods of time, as this position forces the back and neck.

Upper part:

When you put your hands between the climbers and the power of the bike.

This position is often used to relieve pressure on the back while riding at low speeds.

From this position it is not possible to access the brakes, so it is dangerous to roll with your hands on the top of the handlebars for long periods of time.

Support your body weight on the back of the saddle, not the front

This will allow you to lighten the weight of the body supported by the arms and activate the glutes and core when pedaling.

It may seem difficult at first, especially if you are not used to working your core, but over time it will get easier and easier.

Pedal with your elbow slightly bent

Instead of locking your arms, bend your elbow slightly.

This will prevent numbness in your hands. If you feel discomfort in this position, you may be using a bike size that is too large or too small.

Go to your nearest dealer to get a bike fit.

Invest in a pair of cycling gloves

Have a couple of good quality gloves and use them every time you go out to shoot.

This will help protect the sensitive nerve endings in the hand and roll in a much more comfortable way.

Do stretching!

Stretching will help you increase mobility and prevent certain parts of your body from overstressing while riding a bike, which will ultimately help relieve numbness.

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