Specialized BG FIT

Specialized BG FIT (Body Geometry Fit Integration Technology) is a comprehensive fit philosophy created to help cyclists ride faster, longer and in greater comfort, while reducing the chance for injury.

In December Brendan attended the SBCU BG FIT Class in Morgan Hill, California.  The course was outstanding.  Brendan learned a tremendous amount about Body Geometry Fitting.  Brendan has been sizing folks for 14 years on bicycles.  He attended the Barnett Bicycle Institute 14 years ago and learned about bicycle sizing.  Brendan has been researching bicycle sizing ever since and now knows more then ever.  Since returning from SBCU, Brendan has completed 13 BG FITs.  Each BG FIT takes approximately 3 hours.  Rider need to bring their bicycle, their shoes, and should be wearing bicycling shorts and a jersey.  Cost for a fitting is $150.  Riders will receive a before and after photo, as well as a BG FIT sheet with all their data.  Riders can call or drop by to schedule a BG FIT.  Appointments are Monday through Friday at 9:30 AM or 1:30 PM. 

Another Great Reason to Get a BG FIT at Santa Fe Trails Bicycle Shop

Here's a great tip I just read in Bicycling Magazine:  March 2012, page 26.

From the Know How Section: Coach Training and nutrition advice every cyclist can use by Chris Carmichael

Get Low, Go Fast
The Proper Body Position Can Help You Ride Faster, Longer and a Lot More Predictably

Last year, I ran a highly unscientific study at recreational cycling events:  I asked random cyclists to ride with their hands in their handlebar drops.  Most of them could ride neither comfortably nor powerfully for longer than a minute in that position. 

The fact is , it's a good idea to get acquainted with the drops.  A lower body position reduces the amount of drag you must overcome, so you save more energy--and can ride faster and longer.  (Besides, there's no point in buying aero wheels if you're going to sit up and catch wind like a kite).  It can also give you more traction in wet or gravelly conditions and tight corners.  Here's the lowdown on getting low. 

CHECK BIKE FIT To ride effectively in the drops you need to roll your hips forward,  keeping the hip angle (between torso and thigh) open.  If you're getting into the drops only by bending at the waist or arching your back, your hip angle is closing, which means you'll produce less power.  Talk to a certified fitter at a bike shop--a saddle adjustment or swap could help. 

BE FLEXIBLE  If bike fit isn't the problem, the culprit is likely your range of motion.  Reaching the drops simply by straightening your arms may make you less aerodynamic.  To cut drag, you need to lower your head and shoulders, which requires greater hip and lower-back flexibility. 

PRACTICE IN POSITION  To develop more power in the drops, twice a week, do three or four 6- to 8 - minute intervals with your hands in the drops on an  uphill grade of 1 to 3 percent.  Start at a moderate intensity (perceived exertion level of 6 on a 1 to 10 scale); after two or three weeks, progress to an effort at or just slightly below lactate threshold (7 or 8).  Or, use the drops whenever you do intervals on an indoor trainer, especially if you're prepping for a race.