proper bike fit for optimized performance
Professional bike fitting in Fernwood.
Bike fitting is an assessment and adjustment process that aims to optimize a cyclist’s performance and decrease their risk of injury. Proper bike fitting is beneficial to daily commuters and pro riders alike as the fit of a bike impacts both comfort and efficiency.
How does bike fitting work?
Bike fitting uses an assessment system that looks at a rider’s position on their bike. At Physica Health, we use Bike Fit ®; our sports physiotherapist, Carl Cachia, is a certified bike fitter through Bike Fitting Canada. Learn more about Bike Fit ® here.
what will a bike fitting tell me?
A bike fitting will inform you of the following essential aspects of a riding experience that are both comfortable and safe:
Foot assessment, alignment, and position
Saddle fit
Video observation of pedalling stroke
Different joint angles in the pedalling position
Handlebar positioning
Foot-pedal interface
Physica Health works closely with Bike Fit Canada ® for any equipment you might need (e.g. heel wedging) and also with local bike stores for other bike changes.
Bike Fitting is also covered under your Physiotherapy benefits! We direct bill to all major insurers.
Physical Health can determine your correct cycling position
comprehensive cycling history
The first phase of proper bike fitting is to take a full history of your riding. Carl listens to understand your riding habits and goals, learn of any pain or injuries, and document issues that arise while riding your bike.
orthopaedic + musculoskeletal analysis
The second phase of bike fitting is a pre-fit biomechanical orthopaedic and musculoskeletal analysis. Here, we look at the shoulder, hip, knee, and ankle mobility together with a full spinal assessment of neck and mid-back mobility as well as lumbar and pelvic stability.
visual + video analysis
The third phase of proper bike fitting is an observation of you on the bike, both from a frontal and side view. We analyze your saddle position and centre of mass, as well as your lumbar, hip, knee, ankle, shoulder, elbow, and hand angles. Our physiotherapist uses visual and video analysis techniques to observe you on the bike; he then records joint angles and several measurements that will inform the proper bike fit for your needs.
bike fitting faq
do i still need a bike fitting if i don’t have pain?
The most crucial goal of bike fitting is to prevent injuries; it also improves efficiency and comfort. Riding in an optimal position increases your confidence, stability, and safety on the road.
how much does a bike fitting cost?
Physica Health uses lasers, video analysis, and goniometers to analyze your riding position. We also perform a full musculoskeletal assessment to ensure you have the whole picture. The entire evaluation takes 60 minutes to complete and is an investment of $200
can i bill this service through my insurance?
Yes. Since a physiotherapist will assess you, the services can be billed under physiotherapy. Physica Health conveniently offers direct billing.
i got sized when I bought my bike. do I need bike fitting?
This is a common question and one we’re happy to answer. The difference between a bike fit in a shop versus one performed at a physio clinic is that the physiotherapist will also assess your mobility and strength, ensuring you are in the best condition to be on the bike. Physica Health also provides you with a number of exercises that you can do to help recovery from past injuries and prevent further ones.
what do i need for a bike fitting?
The following will help our physiotherapist to best observe and assess your riding position and tendencies during the appointment: cycling clothing, cycling shoes, cleats, if you have them
what kind of bike fittings are available?
Physica Health assesses commuter bikes, mountain bikes, and road bikes. At this time, we are not equipped to do bike fitting on triathlon bikes.
