Getting Back On The Bike After Prostatectomy
We want you to keep doing what you love after cancer treatment. Whether that is going for a round of golf or getting back on the bike.
Exercise is beneficial for our brain, gut, bone health, muscles, heart health and mental health. It has also been shown to decrease the risk of cancer recurrence and improve survivorship. For many men, getting back on the bike is a goal following treatment and we are here to help guide you back.
Please note that the below guide is just that a general guide. We would always recommend working one on one with a pelvic health physiotherapist to guide return. Now we’ve covered the legalities. Read on.
Timeline:
Generally most men are comfortable getting back to stationary bike work around the 12 week mark. It may be tempting to get back in the saddle and smash out half an hour.
However, we would recommend starting around 5 minutes and seeing how you feel. Slowly over time increasing the intensity and/or time.
Sessions should be every other day to ensure you stay comfortable around the perineum and pelvic floor muscles.
If there is any increase in leaking, pelvic pain or pain into the lower abdomen. This may be a sign that we have pushed things too far too soon. Check in with your physio to re-assess.
Once you feel comfortable with a half hour ride on the stationary bike you may want to trial a short road ride on the flats. Let us be clear, now is not the time to go all Tour De France. Starting off with slow short flat rides and then slowly varying the intensity by bringing back speed, hills and distance gradually over time.
Bike Fit:
I would strongly recommend getting a proper bike fit before getting back in the saddle and have a chat about alternative seat options.
Some men find a seat with a cut out to be more comfortable when getting started again.
Don’t Forget About Strength:
As with any return to cardio I would always advised strength training as part of the regular program. This will not only help improve your cycling endurance and power but will also decrease risk of injury. I know endurance athletes like to just run, or just cycle, but adding in strength work can be a game changer for getting through your run’s & swim’s.
