STOP THE SIT BONE MADNESS!
Updated: Nov 6, 2019
We have a major epidemic that if not addressed more people will be in greater pain, spend lots of money and eventually turn to drugs and alcohol. Ok, maybe not drugs or alcohol but you get the point.
Why measuring sit bones doesn't work!
They, whoever "they" are, say, a photo speaks a thousands words. So, let's just debunk the sit bone measuring CRAP right out the gates.
This image represents how a pelvis rest or is supported by a saddle. Notice (A) the Ischial Tuberosities a.k.a "sit bones" do not actually come in contact with the saddle.
The Pubic Bone (B) is the boney protrusion directly above the "a" in dynamic.
Most of the body is supported by the Ischiopubic ramus (C) or the bone connecting the Ischial Tuberosities with the Pubic Bone. This is why measuring "sit bones" is not the solution to your saddle issues.
But why do "they" keep measuring sit bones?
It makes selling you a saddle a lot easier. They have you sit on the ASS-O-METER, measure the width of your sit bones, match it to the corresponding saddle and SALE IS MADE! You walk out the door with a shinny new saddle. But, it rarely works.
Now, I am not saying sit bone width is totally irrelevant. It can provide another piece to the puzzle. But, measuring a boney land mark, that actually doesn't come in contact with the saddle, is not the solution.
In a retail environment how easy is it to measure sit bones, match width and send you home with a NEW saddle? Versus spending the time it takes to properly fit someone to their RIG? (RIG = bike or machine)
How do we pick the right saddle?
There is no simple answer. Your buddy on the group ride will suggestion saddle "X" and company "Y" will claim to have the miracle saddle. But, like mom used to say "you are special". AND, she was right, every one of us is different which makes the war against the saddle difficult.
To be continued!
Sorry, but running short on time and this topic will take a few blog post. I will review the reasons why saddle selection is difficult. Things like pelvic tilt, pelvic rotation, proper foot correction, reach and aggressiveness of position, pelvic
rock , flexibility and left/right asymmetry. I will attempt to make it simple and easy to understand.
I hope we provided some insight on what's truly being supported by your saddle. Our goal is to provide you with some basic knowledge so you can be an informed athlete and consumer.
Want more information, tips and a few cool photos? Check us out on instagram and Facebook.
#aeropro #bikefitting #bikesaddles #sitbones #retul #bikefitter