Bike fitting in non-competitive male cyclists: A video analysis study on improving posture, reducing pain, and enhancing performance

Abstract

Cycling is a widely practiced sport, both competitively and recreationally. In Italy, nearly 4 million people engage in amateur cycling for health, leisure, or personal interest, while approximately 1.9 million participate in organized competitions. Proper bicycle posture has been shown to enhance musculoskeletal discomfort, particularly among non-professional cyclists. Additionally, regular training appears to facilitate postural adaptation and further minimize discomfort. The aim of this research is to support posture optimization during cycling through a structured video analysis approach, offering insights for practitioners engaged in bike fitting evaluations. Approach: Eighty-four non-competitive male cyclists, aged 24–60 years and free from degenerative or cardiovascular conditions, were enrolled. Participants completed a questionnaire identifying regions of pain experienced during weekly training. Cervical and lumbar mobility were assessed through standardized clinical tests. During bike fitting, joint angles—specifically cervical extension, lumbar flexion, and trunk inclination— were measured using 2D video analysis with high-resolution cameras. Results: Significant associations were observed between cervical mobility limitations and altered cervical angles during pedaling (p = 0.018), as well as between cervical and lumbar movement restrictions (p < 0.001). Body weight was also significantly associated with increased trunk angle (p = 0.028). Cyclists without pain demonstrated more favorable postural parameters, suggesting the relevance of individual joint mobility and anthropometrics in bike fitting assessments. Conclusion: The findings suggest that amateur cyclists with restricted cervical mobility often experience concurrent lumbar limitations, potentially affecting posture and comfort. Body weight may also influence trunk position while riding. These insights highlight the importance of individualized bike fitting and targeted assessments to prevent discomfort and enhance cycling experience.