Cycling Supports Your Cycle, Ladies
If I’m anything akin to the women in my family, I’ll have no problem getting pregnant — and that’s if I ever fall into a love deep enough to make me want to run my body through the wringer to create a tiny human for whose life we will be responsible ‘til the end of ours — according to the regularity and normality of my womanly cycles, I’m in pretty good reproductive health. That’s in great part to the active lifestyle that I lead.
I remember times sitting on the toilet, body hunched, face scrunched, absolutely disgusted. UGHH! I’d scream, if I were alone, or no one could hear me. Please, Jesus, let me pass out. I’d imagine a brick and hitting myself over the head with it. Take me now. Lord. (Send me back because life is kinda fun sometimes, but) take me now, Lord. Begging and pleading, up and down from the toilet, making a ball with my body on the ceramic-tiled floor, slamming my body against the wall, sliding down it, lowering my head, I can’t take this anymore.
Whew child, terrible times, terrible times. I’m glad those memories are more of in the distance. As of late, That Lady doesn’t cause any significant trouble when she comes into town for her monthly visit. How is it that my entire body cavity going down through my pelvic bones would be in complete and utter shambles at that time of the month on certain months, while at other times I’d be just fine?
Every visit from Miss Girl wasn’t excruciating in high school and college. I remember sitting a my bed taking a sigh of relief, “ahh.. this is delightful, I wouldn’t even know She’s here right now.” Oh, the peace to not even feel Miss P down there.. thank You, Lord. Please, let it be this way every time. Why wasn’t it?! Why was it that sometimes my menstrual flow hurt?
How did I get rid of painful periods for good?
When I look at early womanhood in retrospect, I can see what likely made the bulk of difference in the way I experienced my menstrual cycle. It’s no coincidence that since moving to Los Angeles, the more consistently active my lifestyle became, the less I experienced period pain.
Boosting Women's Wellness Through Biking: How Active Transportation Supports Your Cycle
Fresh out of college when I first moved to Los Angeles from Louisiana, I didn’t immediately lose all of my bad habits. Coming to have an active and healthy lifestyle, to the extent that I have now, was a gradual change. By far, the BIGGEST change to my lifestyle was going car-free in Los Angeles. One of my co-workers gifted me an extra bicycle that he had, an old black beach cruiser with a basket on the front, and I began riding it on my days off. My bike life began with leisure rides, riding along the beach on a beautiful L.A. day, riding through neighborhood streets to visit a girlfriend, and other routes and destinations where I didn’t necessarily have to be. Then, instead of racking up more parking tickets, I started leaving my car parked at home and taking my bicycles to run little errands, such as to go make groceries or get my hair done at my local salon.
Related: Rich B!tch Grocery Shopping | aroundLA
One Saturday evening, my little Chevy Cruise that I affectionately called GG was acting up on me. This was no rare phenomenon, she had been giving me a new problem every other or so for maybe the last year. I called my landlord’s family mechanic that I’d unfortunately become a too-regular client of and he said I wouldn’t be able to bring my car in until the start of the week. What am I supposed to do tomorrow? I have to go to work.
“Ride your bike,” my co-worker at the time, B. Barry, said to me. Ride my bike to work? Girl, what?! “B. Barry, I’m not about to ride my bike to work,” I said with a face and tone to say I couldn’t believe what she was suggesting. In her dry and monotone voice she uses when she’s being sassy in a contained manner, she says to me, “you ride your bike everywhere else.” I’m sure my eyes either cut to the side or my eyebrows came together with my lip turned up. Girl, stop playing with me. ‘Cause now I think you’re trying to clown the fact that I’m a grown woman that likes to ride her bike for fun. I’m not ashamed to be in my early 20s, when being a PYT clubbing, cutting up and doing hoodrat things with her friends is the cool thing to do, preferring riding bikes in my free time. (Note: I am doing all of the aforementioned.)
When I got over my instant reaction to be defensive, I actually processed the thought. Hm, ride my bike to work? “Mm mn, I don’t want to be sweaty at work”, “how would I even get to work on my bike”, “but what if I smell like outside”, “well.. how far is the bike ride to work?”, “naw, I can’t be at work looking sloppy…” I went on aloud, saying one thing, letting her say something, then re-working what we just said, the way extroverts tend to process thoughts by talking.
“Whatchu go’on do, G?” By the end of our conversation, I’d decided I’d give riding my bike to work a try and that was all she wrote! It was a wrap after that — 6 or so months later, I sold my Chevy Cruze back to the dealership and was a brand new car-free me!! I can write a separate blog post going into the steps of transitioning from having a car to being car free.
No longer having a car changed my life, and my cycles.
I’ve scoured a plethora of academic journals, peer-reviewed studies, and official websites of the United States government, such as NIH’s National Library of Medicine, in order to explain how incorporating cycling and other active forms of transportation into a lifestyle can enhance women’s wellness.
The Connection Between Activity and Menstrual Health
Engaging in an active lifestyle that includes cycling, yoga, and other forms of active transportation can play a crucial role in supporting hormone balance and reducing stress, especially during the menstrual cycle. Activities such as stretching, walking, and hiking are known to be effective in promoting hormonal balance, making them ideal for women who experience fluctuations during their cycle. Incorporating these movements into your weekly routine, especially in the luteal phase, can help regulate stress levels and maintain a sense of calm. Whether you’re cycling through Los Angeles or simply walking to the bus stop, these activities can have a significant positive impact on your wellness.
For women who experience menstrual pain, maintaining regular physical activity can make a huge difference. Research has shown that women who exercise consistently report less menstrual pain than those who lead more sedentary lifestyles. This is largely because exercise helps improve circulation and release endorphins, which act as natural painkillers. In addition, aerobic activities like bike riding, swimming, and running are great ways to ease menstrual cramps while also keeping you active. Many women also report that their periods are more manageable when they stay physically active throughout their cycle.
Interestingly, cycling and other forms of moderate to vigorous physical activity can even have an effect on the duration of a woman’s menstrual cycle. Studies have suggested that regular exercise may lead to longer cycles, with fewer hormonal fluctuations. This means that women who exercise consistently may experience fewer intense fluctuations in estrogen and progesterone, leading to more predictable periods with potentially less frequent bleeding. Regular activity could therefore help stabilize your hormonal cycle over time, reducing the uncomfortable symptoms that often accompany menstruation.
One common question many women have is whether it’s safe to exercise during their period. The answer is an enthusiastic yes! In fact, during certain phases of the cycle, such as around ovulation, when estrogen levels peak, many women find they have more energy and can push themselves harder in workouts. Even when progesterone levels rise after ovulation, causing some women to feel sluggish or tired, staying active can actually improve your mood and energy levels. Instead of skipping your workout, consider trying cycling in the morning when your energy is higher to boost your day.
Moreover, being physically active during your period may alleviate the severity of premenstrual symptoms (PMS), such as bloating, fatigue, and mood swings. Keeping up with bike riding, whether for commuting or fun, can help stabilize your mood and provide a natural energy boost even when you might otherwise feel less motivated to exercise.
Regular cycling and other forms of activity not only contribute to a sustainable lifestyle by reducing your reliance on cars but also help you maintain better menstrual health and wellness. Incorporating both aerobic exercises such as cycling and strength-building activities such as yoga or pilates into your routine can bring significant benefits to both your physical health and hormonal balance, leading to a healthier, more enjoyable cycle overall.
Benefits of Cycling for Women's Wellness
Engaging in an active lifestyle through regular cycling offers numerous health benefits for women, especially when it comes to managing weight and reducing health risks. For many women, weight management can be more challenging compared to men due to factors like hormonal fluctuations, pregnancy, and menopause. These changes can lead to shifts in metabolism, increased fat storage, and muscle loss, making it more difficult for women to maintain a healthy weight. However, bike riding serves as a highly effective way to burn calories, build muscle, and support healthy weight management. By incorporating cycling into their routines, women can achieve a sustainable method of maintaining or losing weight, while also benefiting from the mental and physical advantages of staying active.
This graphic that recently appeared on my Instagram explore page shares how exercising during the luteal phase of the menstrual cycle aids in digestion. | credit: Manski Wellness
Regular cycling can significantly reduce the risk of developing breast cancer. Studies have shown that women who cycle frequently reduce their risk of breast cancer by 34%. This is particularly impactful, given that women are at higher risk for various health concerns, including breast and cervical cancers, as well as other conditions like heart disease, stroke, and osteoporosis. Prioritizing activities such as cycling that actively lower these risks is a critical way for women to take control of their long-term health. Beyond the reduction in cancer risk, cycling also provides a holistic approach to wellness, tackling many areas of women’s health simultaneously.
Women are also at a higher risk of cardiovascular diseases compared to men. Heart disease remains one of the leading causes of death among women, and aerobic activities like bike riding are essential for improving cardiovascular health. Regular cycling helps lower blood pressure, reduce resting heart rate, and improve overall heart function. By integrating cycling as a form of active transportation or recreation, women can significantly reduce risk of heart-related conditions, while enjoying the added benefits of improved endurance and fitness.
Stress and anxiety are two other areas where women are disproportionately affected. Cycling is an excellent way to promote stress relief, as it promotes the release of endorphins, which are natural mood boosters. Whether you’re commuting by bike or taking a leisurely ride through your neighborhood, the simple act of getting outside and moving your body can dramatically lower anxiety levels and create a sense of mental clarity. For women who face higher levels of stress and anxiety, making cycling a part of their routine can be a powerful, natural way to manage emotional health.
⚡ Biker Babe Quick Tip: Cycling reduces the risk of breast cancer by 34%, while strengthening muscles and improving heart health—ride your way to wellness!
Regular bike riding can also help combat depression and improve sleep quality. Women, particularly those struggling with sedentary insomnia, often find that incorporating cycling into their daily routine helps them fall asleep faster and improves the overall duration of their sleep. Cycling not only tires the body in a healthy way but also calms the mind, promoting better sleep patterns.
Furthermore, cycling strengthens the muscles in the legs, glutes, and core, and helps improve bone health—a critical area of concern for women, especially as they age and face higher risks of osteoporosis. With its low-impact nature, cycling is gentle on the joints, preserving cartilage and enhancing joint mobility. This makes it an excellent option for women who suffer from issues like muscle strain, foot pain, knee problems, or back pain. By improving posture and coordination through regular cycling, women can increase their muscle and bone strength while avoiding high-impact exercises that could exacerbate joint issues.
Incorporating cycling into your active lifestyle not only offers the benefits of weight management but also provides a comprehensive approach to improving overall wellness. From reducing cancer risks to boosting heart health and alleviating stress, bike riding is a powerful tool that can help women prioritize both their physical and mental health.
Living Car-Free in Los Angeles: An Active Lifestyle by Default
Living a car-free lifestyle in Los Angeles offers many advantages, particularly for women who prioritize an active lifestyle and sustainable living. Not having a car naturally encourages more physical activity, whether through walking, bike riding, or using active transportation options like public transit. This daily movement contributes to improved cardiovascular health and weight management by increasing your level of exercise without the need for structured workouts. Walking to the nearest bus stop or cycling to work instead of driving can be an effortless way to incorporate fitness into your routine while staying connected to the vibrant energy of the city.
Another key benefit of living car-free is the significant reduction in stress. Avoiding the hassle of traffic jams and the frustration of finding parking immediately lowers your daily stress levels. Commuting by bike or public transit allows you to bypass much of the anxiety that comes with driving, giving you a more relaxed and enjoyable start to your day. By choosing to embrace active transportation, you're not only improving your mental well-being but also creating more space to appreciate your surroundings. A leisurely bike ride through your neighborhood provides an opportunity to engage with the world around you, fostering a greater sense of mindfulness. This slower pace allows you to notice the little things—whether it's the architecture of a historic building or a quiet park tucked away on a side street—helping you to feel more connected to your community.
↻ rider, don't roll past this ↻
One of the best parts of living car-free in Los Angeles is how it opens up unexpected moments of connection. Just last week, I was cycling to a local café and ended up chatting with a woman at a stoplight who was also on her way to a farmers market. We exchanged tips about the best produce stands, and it was such a refreshing change from being stuck in traffic. These little interactions are a reminder that ditching the car not only improves your health but also fosters community—something we all need a bit more of!
From an environmental perspective, opting for cycling over driving significantly reduces your carbon footprint, contributing to a healthier planet. Cleaner air, less noise pollution, and reduced emissions all have a positive impact on your health, too. By making the choice to live car-free, you're actively contributing to the well-being of your surroundings, and in turn, creating a cleaner and healthier environment for yourself and others.
Living in a walkable area without a car also enhances your connection to your local neighborhood. Instead of being boxed inside a vehicle during your commute, you’re more likely to interact with local businesses, neighbors, and fellow commuters. These seemingly small interactions contribute to a more socially active lifestyle, which is just as important as physical activity for overall wellness. Human connection—whether it’s a simple greeting from a local shop owner or a conversation with someone waiting at the bus stop—can uplift your mood and contribute to mental health. While not an exercise in the traditional sense, social interactions are essential for emotional well-being, and living without a car opens the door to more of these experiences.
Choosing active transportation options like bike riding or walking not only keeps you physically active but also supports a more mindful and community-focused way of life. You’re free from the stress of car ownership, the constant pressure of navigating traffic, and the isolation of solo car rides. Instead, you’re more in tune with your body, your surroundings, and the people around you, creating a balance between physical health, mental well-being, and environmental consciousness.
Feminine Hygiene for Active Women: Cycling Edition
Living an active lifestyle means staying healthy, fit, and comfortable—even on your bike. But for women, maintaining proper feminine hygiene while cycling requires a little extra thought. Whether you're commuting daily, riding for fitness, or enjoying weekend adventures, managing issues like comfort, sweat, and menstrual care can make a big difference in your overall experience. From choosing the right gear to practicing good hygiene habits, here’s how you can keep things fresh and comfortable on the bike, ensuring that you feel your best while living a car-free and active life.
How Can I Protect My Private Parts While Cycling?
Maintaining comfort and hygiene while enjoying an active lifestyle of bike riding is crucial for women, especially during long rides. To protect your private parts, start by choosing the right underwear. Wool underwear is an excellent option because it has antimicrobial properties that can help prevent yeast infections and urinary tract infections (UTIs). If wool isn’t your thing, a seamless microfiber thong with a cotton layer can offer breathability, which is essential for keeping things dry and fresh. It’s also important to wash your underwear frequently—ideally, after each ride. If you’re on a remote trip, try washing them in a sink with hot water, or, if necessary, in a stream or river without soap to avoid environmental damage.
Can You Bike With a Menstrual Cup?
Absolutely! Menstrual cups are an excellent option for women who want to maintain their active lifestyle during their period, especially if you’re planning on a long ride. Since menstrual cups can hold more than a typical tampon and offer up to 12 hours of protection, they’re perfect for those who may not have access to a toilet during their ride. Plus, they reduce the risk of leaks and don’t interfere with cycling shorts the way a bulky pad might. Just remember to empty and clean your cup before you head out on a longer trip!
Can You Wear a Pad While Riding a Bike?
No! Please don’t. Wearing a pad while bike riding is not recommended, as the combination of sweat, friction, and bacteria can lead to discomfort, chafing, and even infections. The last thing you want is to feel sweaty and gross between your legs during a ride. Instead, opt for tampons or menstrual cups if you're on your period, which are much more comfortable and hygienic options.
How Do Cyclists Protect Lady Parts?
Comfort is key when it comes to cycling for women. Cycling pads, made of foam and often inserted into bike shorts, are essential for protecting your private parts from friction and pressure during long rides. These pads help reduce chafing and offer much-needed support, making your ride smoother and more enjoyable. Whether you're cycling for fitness, commuting, or simply enjoying a day out, padded bike shorts can make a huge difference in how your body feels after hours on the bike.
What Do Female Cyclists Wear?
When it comes to cycling, female riders typically wear padded bike shorts, which offer protection and comfort for your most sensitive areas. These shorts are designed to minimize chafing and pressure on the body while keeping you comfortable during long rides. You can pair your shorts with a moisture-wicking top or jersey to keep sweat at bay. Proper cycling gear is essential for maintaining hygiene and enjoying your ride without discomfort.
Do You Wear a Bra When Cycling?
⚡ Biker Babe Quick Tip: Keeping your bike rides comfortable starts with choosing the right gear—opt for breathable fabrics and always wash your bike shorts after every ride!
Wearing a bra while cycling is entirely up to you and your comfort level. Many women opt for sports bras that offer support without being too restrictive. Look for breathable, moisture-wicking materials that will help prevent sweat buildup under your bra. Choosing a bra that fits well and provides the right support can make a significant difference, especially during long rides.
How Should a Female Sit on a Bike?
Proper posture is crucial to avoid discomfort and protect your private parts during bike riding. When sitting on a bike, your seat should be adjusted so that your hips are level and you can reach the pedals comfortably without overextending your legs. Leaning slightly forward with your hands on the handlebars helps distribute your weight evenly, reducing pressure on your pelvic area. This not only improves comfort but also helps prevent strain on your back and joints.
Wash Your Bike Shorts Immediately After a Ride
Another important hygiene tip is to always wash your bike shorts immediately after a ride and wear a fresh pair each time you cycle. Bike shorts are designed to wick away moisture, but sweat and bacteria can still accumulate. Washing your gear regularly helps prevent infections and keeps you feeling fresh on your next ride.
Incorporating proper hygiene practices into your cycling routine ensures that you can fully enjoy your active lifestyle without any discomfort. Whether it’s choosing the right underwear, washing your gear regularly, or opting for a menstrual cup during your period, these small adjustments can make a big difference in how you feel on the bike.
Practical Tips for Maintaining an Active Lifestyle
Incorporating bike riding into your daily life doesn’t have to feel like a daunting new workout routine. In fact, one of the best things about cycling is that it can easily blend into your day-to-day activities, making it a seamless part of your active lifestyle without the pressure of a formal exercise plan. Rather than viewing biking as something extra, you can use it as your primary mode of active transportation, turning regular tasks into opportunities for movement and fitness.
Incorporate Cycling Into Your Daily Routines
It’s easier than you might think to incorporate cycling into your daily life. Start small by swapping short car trips with a quick bike ride. Consider riding your bike to local sporting events—whether you're heading to practice or cheering from the sidelines, biking can become part of the experience. You can also use biking for school pick-up and drop-off, turning what would have been a stressful drive into a fun and active trip for you and the kids. When running errands, consider cycling to the grocery store, post office, or pharmacy instead of driving. Even small trips add up, giving you a daily dose of exercise without the need to schedule a workout. If you’re involved in neighborhood volunteering, ride your bike to local events or community meetings. It’s a perfect way to stay engaged with your community while reaping the health benefits of cycling.
Complementing Cycling with Other Forms of Exercise
While bike riding is a fantastic way to stay in shape, it pairs perfectly with other forms of exercise that can strengthen your body and improve your performance on the bike. Incorporating strength training, especially exercises that focus on core and leg muscles, can make your rides more powerful and reduce the risk of injury. Yoga or stretching routines are also a great complement to cycling. They help improve flexibility, reduce muscle tension, and keep your joints healthy, which is especially important if you're biking regularly. These exercises can also aid in recovery after long rides, helping you avoid soreness and stay on track with your active lifestyle.
GIRL, YOU GOT TO DO IT! YOUR LIFE DEPENDS ON IT
Let’s be real—staying active isn’t just about looking good; it’s about feeling good and taking care of your body. And girl, your life depends on it! Whether it’s boosting your cardiovascular health, improving mental clarity, or reducing stress, getting into cycling is one of the best ways to transform your life for the better. You don’t have to be a pro or spend hours in a gym. Just hop on your bike and go! The more you do it, the easier it gets.
It’s Easy to Get Started—Soon It’ll Be a Lifestyle
The great thing about biking is how easy it is to begin. All you need is a bike and a destination, and you’re good to go. You don’t need special gear, fancy equipment, or even a ton of experience. Once you start biking for short trips, it’ll quickly become a habit. Before you know it, riding your bike will be second nature. The beauty of cycling is that it doesn’t just stay a one-time activity; soon, it becomes part of your daily routine and, ultimately, your active lifestyle. Once biking is ingrained in your life, you’ll wonder how you ever lived without it.
Riding Out
Whew child, not it’s 1am and I’m still sitting at this desk tapping on this keyboard trying to convince y’all to start riding a bicycle to change your life. If you’re not an active girly, wHEt iZ yOu DOiNg???? Speaking of… oh aht uhn, I have an 8am ballet class DTLA. I can’t give you a cute closing this time.. wait, do I usually give cute closings? Closings? Mmm. [shoulder shrugs]. Cute? Always. ☺
Thank you for riding, Riders.
