Body Care

As a former Yin yoga instructor I know the ligaments, tendons and joints are the "coldest" parts of the body meaning they have the least blood flow. Embrocation pre warms these structures even before you turn the pedals. This is a gentle introduction to embrocation compared to others I have used. I don't notice the heat for hours after a ride which is sometimes uncomfortable. This product also does not have and overpowering smell. This does a good job of warming and protecting those knees. I have also used it on my shoulders before rowing. Do be careful not to get the stuff in your eyes wash your hands thoroughly after applying. The same is true for any other sensitive areas. I put my bib tights on keeping them just below my knees. Chamois cream first and do not keep the jars next to each other please. Then rub a small amount on from just below the knee joint to just slightly above. I might dab a small amount on the outer side of each quad (think IT band) on very cold mornings. Pull up the bibs and go wash your hands. I am a big embrocation fan.

I've used just about every chamois creme out there. Most of them do their job pretty well, but I have found that the Euro style Chamois Butt'r, works particularly well for my body. Long rides are tough on me with the chafing after the chamois creme breaks down. The Euro style is a bit thicker than most so it seems to do a better job for me longer. We're all different down below, and I have a real problem with chafing and eventual sores unless everything is just right. Euro style does a little better for me than most of the others.

I have always used a different chamois cream. I have always had problems with friction even using the other product. This included some residual issues after getting off the bike. I ordered this Muc-Off Luxury Chamois Cream and I am so happy I did. I no longer have post ride issues and my skin has completely healed using the Muc-Off Chamois cream. I like the smell and the cooling affect it provides. I wish I had tried it a LONG time ago. It has made my cycling life so much better now.

There are no superlatives for the Theragun. It is an amazing product. I wasn't sure initially about getting it. It was expensive, and the company founder appearing on their web site made it seem cheap. What convinced me were the references to all the pro teams that use it, so I finally got it. I am so glad I did. The result of the percussive massage is almost magical. I walk a lot as a workout (20+ miles most days at 13-14 pace) and bike (200+ miles a week) and had just resigned myself to live with all the various pains, especially shooting ones in my leg that would wake me up even. This thing stopped all of it. Using it before or after a long walk removes all muscle related issues. No pain, and real sleep. If you suffer from any muscle soreness, tightness, sciatica, etc., I strongly recommend it.