The Shape of Cycling — and How to Balance It

Cycling is fantastic for cardiovascular fitness, endurance, and getting around—but what happens when it becomes your main form of movement? In this episode, Katy Bowman and Dr. Jeannette Loram explore how cycling shapes the body, from bone health and posture to hip mobility, spinal curves, and pelvic comfort. They discuss why even healthy forms of exercise don't provide every movement nutrient you need, and share practical strategies to help cyclists enjoy the ride while supporting long-term strength, mobility, and resilience.

Plus Katy speaks with Tyler Benner, founder of Strong Feet Athletics, about the role of the feet in cycling and what happens when we lock them into rigid compressive cycling shoes for hours at a time. They explore the benefits of a more foot-shaped, flexible cycling shoe and how allowing the feet more freedom may help support lower limb function both on and off the bike.

Enhanced Show Notes and Full Transcript

0:22 — Dynamic Collective Sponsors

2:37 — Introduction to Cycling, the Movement Diet, and the Tissues of the Body

5:35 — Bone Density in Cyclists

13:36 — Low Energy Availability in Cyclists: Effects on Hormones and Bones

17:36 — How Your Body Can Become Semi-Fixed in a Cycling Shape

20:04 — Hyperkyphosis and Cervical Issues

25:19 — Pelvic Position and Compression

30:47 — Practical Ways to Balance Cycling

33:22 — Interview with Tyler Benner: The Creator of the First Foot-Shaped Cycling Shoe