3 Proven Strategies to Eliminate Butt Soreness on the Bike

Joe Beckerley, CSCS
3 min readJan 29, 2024

As cyclists, we all dream of going on a long ride without experiencing any discomfort, especially when it comes to butt soreness. But unfortunately, it is one of the most common issues that cyclists face. The good news is that there are effective strategies to tackle this problem. In this post, we will discuss three proven strategies that will help you eliminate butt soreness on the bike and enjoy a comfortable ride.

There are two main types of saddle soreness. Frictional and Pressure.

Chafing Cream

Chafing is caused by the friction between your skin and the bike seat. This can be easily treated with a chafing cream. Apply a small amount of a good quality chafing cream to the vulnerable areas before heading out. These creams help to moisturize the skin and reduce friction, thereby eliminating chafing. You can also find creams that contain anti-bacterial properties which prevent bacterial infections and reduce inflammation.

If you are prone to chafing on long rides you can carry some extra and reapply after 2–3 hours of riding.

Bike Fit

The bike fit is crucial when it comes to eliminating butt soreness. A good bike fit is one that puts you in a position that relieves the pressure on your sit bones. A professional bike fit can help you determine the best position for your body, which will prevent any discomfort that you might experience during cycling. Correct fit will help distribute your weight properly, reduce saddle pressure, and reduce discomfort.

Seat Selection

The bike seat is a crucial factor when it comes to avoiding saddle soreness. Many new cyclists make the mistake of thinking that any seat can fit any body type — but that’s not true. Every person has their own sit bone width, and bike seats are designed specifically for individual sit bone widths. The right seat will help you find the right support for your bottom and will also reduce any friction with the skin. A seat specifically designed for your body type will have the ability to reduce the pressure points, allowing you to ride more comfortably.

In conclusion, butt soreness is a common problem faced by cyclists of all levels. However, with the right strategies, you can eliminate it from your rides. These three strategies include using chafing cream, getting a professional bike fit, and selecting the right saddle. Always remember that comfortable cycling is possible, and you don’t have to suffer from soreness during or after rides. Take the time to find the right products and professionals who can help you, and you will be able to enjoy cycling to the fullest.

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Coach Joe Beckerley, CSCS
Triathlon Strong | Fuel The Finish

About: I am an expert in helping endurance athletes. crush their next events! With over a decade of experience as a coach, I have helped hundreds of athletes with my knowledge. I lead a life guided by my values and experience and have mastered the skills I coach others to develop. Together, we will ensure that you cross the finish line Strong!

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Joe Beckerley, CSCS

I help give endurance athletes a competitive edge. USA Level 2 Triathlon Coach, Strength and Conditioning Specialist, Precision Nutrition Level 2 Master Coach