The research paper investigating over 300 female triathletes revealed a prevalence of pelvic floor dysfunction linked to repetitive impact on the pelvic floor while cycling.
It states that, of 311 female triathletes, 37.4% had stress urinary incontinence, 28% had symptoms of anal incontinence, 16% had urge urinary incontinence and 5% had pelvic floor organ prolapse.
Pictured: A research paper has investigated the link between cycling and pelvic floor dysfunction
Consultant obstetrician and gynaecologist Dr Kalaivani Ramalingan of the Medical Specialist Group said that some exercise is linked to incontinence problems.
“It is the case that some forms of high impact exercise such as trampolining or gymnastics can lead to worsening of stress leakage in athletes,” she said.
“I am not aware of any research on spinning. If anyone does experience symptoms they will need to see their doctor for a focused treatment plan.”
Dr Ramalingan said the benefits of exercise outweigh any potential risk.
Pictured: Dr Kalaivani Ramalingan said obesity is a much more common cause of incontinence.
“In my opinion, any form of exercise does more good than harm. Along with a good diet, exercise helps to prevent obesity, which is much more associated with urinary incontinence,” she said.
“Strengthening your pelvic floor muscles is important for may reasons and everyone can benefit from doing pelvic floor exercises.”
It is possible that the impact of spinning on the pelvic floor could be reduced by ensuring correct posture and changing sitting positions on the bike regularly.
Pictured: Spinning instructors are trained in the importance of changing position on the bike during classes.
The States’ Head of Recreation, Sam Herridge, said that spinning instructors at Beau Sejour Leisure Centre are aware of the importance of changing position during exercise.
“All our experienced indoor cycling instructors are trained and qualified and many participate in road cycling as a hobby or sport in their own time,” she said.
“As such, they are very aware of the importance of changing position on the bike regularly throughout their class to relieve any pressures felt throughout the body as well as the importance of varying the ‘load’.”
Ms Herridge said that spinning sessions include moving from seated to standing positions and standing repetitions to relieve any pressure felt when seated.
“All instructors will also demonstrate and check bike set-ups for any new class participants and undertake regular positioning checks throughout the session,” she said.