Cycling and back pain? It seems like aching quads and overworked hamstrings are more likely, doesn\’t it? Yet cycling can have its share of back problems. A number of things might cause it.

If there is no intrinsic biological problem that would cause back pain on the bike, improper bike fit might easily be the cause. It’s well worth the time and cost to get a good bike fit, such as Specialized Body Geometry. As the saying goes, adjust the bike to fit your body; don\’t force your body to fit the bike.

Posture is another factor, whether on the bicycle or not. Many of our daily activities are not conducive to good posture. Another possible culprit is poor flexibility. Lack of core strength can also lead to back pain. A misaligned spine, too, can be behind an aching back.

Check out your riding style. Trying to push gears too hard for your strength level can adversely affect the back, especially trying to climb in too hard a gear. Pushing too hard a gear is also putting yourself at risk for knee problems.

Prevention, of course, is the best cure. And what about riding with a loaded Camel-Bak on your, well, back? It\’s not only the reservoir full of water; to that weight you can add anything else you choose to take along, such as food or an extra jacket.

Work up to it, as with so many other things. Don\’t wait to use said loaded Camel-Bak on the day of a major event. The unaccustomed load could lead to cycling and back pain. And now, I\’d like to get back on the bike!