Is this normal? It sure doesn't feel it!

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hello

I'm fairly new to cycling and have been really enjoying it since collecting my Trek 1200 the other week.

I use it to ride to work every day and also over the last weekend I went out on a ride just to try and improve my fitness levels and for fun.

I only did about 20 miles but Rome wasn't built in a day!

Since this longer ride i've been experiencing a pain ( mainly a dull ache - sometimes a sharp pain) just below / under my right testicle.

I had a day off the bike yesterday as i was going out that evening, however today after riding into work ( about 4 / 5 miles) the pain is back. It doesn't so much occur at the time, more afterwards.

Obviously I'm still getting used to riding a race bike ( and associated 'non comfort' saddle!) but surely this isn't right?

Any ideas ? is this bad riding position, a wearing in period, signs of something serious????

James

Is it a muscle pain or nerve pain i.e. does it feel like a muscle cramping up or does it feel like a nerve being pinched?

more like a nerve I guess

The muscles, ligaments and nerves around the groin area are susceptible to over-use injuries. The delayed onset of post-exercise pain is usually more difficult to diagnose than the immediate pain caused by severe strain.

You need to ask yourself a few questions first:
1> What happened, or what has changed, that caused the injury?
2> Do I have a history of similar injuries, or is this a once off?
3> Are my muscles suitably conditioned for the exercise?


I'm fairly new to cycling...
Answer to question number 1.

Since this longer ride i've been experiencing a pain...
Answer to question number 3.

My suggestions are:

Don't stop riding. I know it's a cliche, but your body and muscles need time to adapt to the change in environment.
Have the pro at your local bike shop checkout your bike setup and form on the bike.
Make sure that you have proper cycling shorts. After your ride, get out of your cycling shorts asap.
STRETCH! STRETCH! STRETCH! And don't just perform the quick bend over kind of stretch. Proper stretching exercises are very important.
Use your thumb and try to isolate the source of pain. Massage the area after stretching.
If it gets any worse, visit your GP or sports doctor.

thanks mate

I appreciate your advice. I see what you;re saying - I'll carry on riding to work , see how I get on. Just keep an eye on it for the next few days I guess.

I'm not totally surprised that my body is offering some form of shock at the new levels of activity it's being subjected to. Anyway It better get used to it because there's plenty more ahead!!!

Thanks again

James