What Causes Arm Pump Mountain Biking?

Arm pump is a common and often painful problem for mountain bikers. It occurs when the muscles in the arms become fatigued and swollen, leading to a feeling of tightness, pain, and decreased performance. The cause of arm pump is not fully understood, but there are several factors that may contribute.

Poor Mountain Bike Fit – Poor mountain bike fit can lead to strain on the arms from having to hold an awkward or uncomfortable position while riding. This can lead to fatigue, which can in turn cause arm pump. Having your bike fitted correctly by a professional is essential for avoiding arm pump issues.

Improper Suspension Setup – Improperly set up suspension can also be a factor in arm pump. If your suspension is too stiff, or if it doesn’t absorb bumps properly, your arms will have to work harder to keep you in control of the bike. Adjusting your suspension setup properly can help ensure that your arms don’t get overworked while riding.

Lack of Strength and Endurance – Another potential contributor to arm pump is lack of strength and endurance in the upper body muscles used for mountain biking. If you don’t have adequate strength or endurance in these muscles, they will tire more quickly than they should, leading to fatigue and eventually arm pump.

Conclusion:

Arm pump is a common problem for mountain bikers caused by a variety of factors including poor bike fit, improper suspension setup, and lack of upper body strength and endurance. To prevent arm pump from occurring it is important to ensure your bike fits properly, adjust your suspension correctly, and build up strength and endurance in the upper body muscles used for mountain biking.

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Samantha Mckinney