Ask the physio

Cycling specialist Phil Burt has a fix for every niggle

- Phil Burt, David Bradford

I’ve been told by numerous physios that my glutes don’t work very well, but no matter how many exercises I do, I can’t seem to improve their action on the bike. What would you suggest?

This is a real bugbear of mine. An all too easily trotted out line from physios and a catch-all for all problems is, “your glutes aren’t working”. Though glute dysfunction and rehab can be the solution to many back, pelvic and lower limb issues, it’s too often a lazy reason to give for more complicated issues.

If you’re not seeing results, consider whether your glutes could indeed contribute more to your cycling. Too low or far back a saddle position will negate hip extension, which is the main job for the glutes – a major contributor to your optimal power. If you’re seated in a biomechanically inefficient position, it doesn’t matter how many glute exercises you do, your glutes won’t be able to contribute fully.

I seem to suffer from knee pain and niggles when switching from MTB to road cycling. What’s the most likely reason?