How to prevent numb hands when cycling

One of the key reasons behind numb hands is gripping the handlebars too tightly. Keeping your hands in one position for too long can restrict the blood flow, causing numbness.

Try moving your hand around on the bars to vary the position. Alternating between riding the hoods, drops and flat part of the bars will help distribute pressure more and prevent over strain in any particular areas.

A proper bike fit is crucial for comfort and performance. Make sure your saddle height and position are correct. If the saddle is tilted down slightly it will force more pressure on your hands which you'll eventually feel, especially on longer rides. Also check your reach to the bars from the saddle as an aggressive set-up can cause increased pressure on your hands and wrists.

Read more: How to find the perfect bike fit

Sometimes numbness comes from vibrations from the road's surface travelling through the bike to one of your main contact points – your hands. Wearing gloves with padding in the palm can absorb and reduce some of those vibrations as well as the pressure you force though your hands.

Read more: How to avoid getting a numb penis when cycling

Our final tip relates to the fact that sometimes we can all be guilty of gripping the bike too tightly. Try and remind yourself to relax your arms, have a slight bend in the elbows and lighten your grip on the bars. This will help stop you cutting off the circulation to your hands.