EFFECTS OF SADDLE POSITION, SIZE, AND SHAPE ON DYNAMIC CHARACTERISTICS AND SUBJECTIVE PERCEPTION OF CYCLISTS’ POSTURE TECHNIQUE

The aim of the research is to develop a cyclist’s posture technique, aimed at optimizing pressure distribution on the bicycle and reducing discomfort by adopting an individualized approach to adjusting seat height, tilt angle, and saddle size based on individual anthropometric characteristics. The model dynamic characteristics obtained during the study can be used as an element of the system for evaluating cyclist seating technique. The statistically significant decrease (t = 4.43 at p < 0.05) in pressure in the soft tissues of the pelvis by 192.5 mbar, as well as the significant increase (t = 6.71 at p < 0.05) in pressure in the area of the seat bones by 690.6 mbar in the experimental group, unequivocally indicate a shift in pressure. This shift in pressure demonstrates the effectiveness of the proposed cyclist seating training technology. The shift of pressure to the area of seat bones, achieved through seating optimization, significantly improved the subjective perception and comfort of seating. Thus, the hypothesis was confirmed: an individualized approach to adjusting seat height, tilt angle, and saddle selection based on individual anthropometric characteristics is effective and yields positive results.