Have you ever been riding when your arms suddenly started to ache or go numb? Was it getting harder to pull your clutch or brake lever in? Did twisting the throttle send a sharp pain up your arm? If this has ever happened to you, then you’ve experienced the dreaded arm pump. But don’t worry, stalwart road warrior: there are several ways to fight this affliction!
How To Pump The Brakes On Arm Pump!
- Do Your Cardio: Arm pump is usually the result of cramping and restricted blood flow. That means that cardiovascular exercise can possibly be the best remedy for this malady. Go out for a jog, dance, or try some aerobics and your arm pump troubles could become a thing of the past.
- Drink Some Water: Another common cause of cramping is dehydration, so taking a swig of water before you go out might actually help to prevent your arms from seizing up.
- Body Position: If you are leaning forward, and putting your weight on your wrists, then your wrists are eventually going to start hurting. Instead, try to balance your weight on your legs and on the bike’s pegs. You will be surprised at how quickly your arms will start feeling better once you’ve taken your weight off of them.
- Go With The Flow: Arm pump can also happen when riders clench their handlebars too tightly. If you are strangling your grips, then you might want to consider taking a few breaths and relaxing. You’re out there riding to have fun, and if you can’t chill out and smell the roses, then arm pump might not be the only problem you have while you’re riding.
- Shut Up and Ride: You may not have heard this before, but arm pump could also be a sign that you are not getting out to ride enough. It can sometimes be a sign that you are getting out of shape, and one of the best ways to make sure your body stays accustomed to riding is to throw a leg over the bike and carve up some road.
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