RIDE LONGER, RIDE STRONGER, RIDE FASTER, RIDE SAFER, WITH COMFORT

At FITT 1ST we are passionate about the sport of cycling and believe that in order to enjoy this wonderful sport to its fullest, you need to be comfortable above all else. Whether you are a weekly commuter, a dedicated charity rider, serious recreational club rider, elite or professional athlete, road or mountain, it all starts with finding the best position possible for you. Once you are comfortable, then and only then can performance be optimized.We believe that a person’s bicycle when fitted correctly should feel like an extension of their own body, the perfect union between Rider and Machine. You should feel comfortable, safe, balanced, strong and always in control.

K Scott Judges B Sc. ( Founder / Owner )



Contact Info: Tel: 416-346-9696

Email: fitt1stbikefitting@gmail.com



FIT STUDIO AND PERFORMANCE LAB LOCATED AT:

1450 O'connor Dr. Building 2, Unit 105 Toronto ON M4B 2T8

Go to this link for Directions::

https://www.google.com/webhp?source=search_app&gws_rd=ssl#q=1450+o+connor+drive+building+2



WHAT MAKES A " FITT 1ST " BIKE FIT DIFFERENT

"Tell me and I’ll forget. Show me and I’ll remember. Involve me and I’ll understand”

Confucius

We at FITT 1ST want you to understand your bike fit, that's why we take the extra time to actively involve you in all aspects of the procedure. This way we establish quality communication and feedback.

Our fitting process was developed by the leaders and pioneers in this industry, taught at the SICI Institute to the TOP FITTERS IN THE WORLD. Although our system uses well established scientific criteria as its base we add a very “Rider Centric “ component to our fit procedure by establishing a thorough personalized profile of the rider themselves.

There are no “quick fixes” if a bike fit is done correctly, and that is why our fits are very comprehensive.

Whether you are a pro athlete or a daily commuter, the process remains the same and is equally important for all.

By the time your fit is complete you should not only feel totally satisfied with your new position, you will also have a much greater knowledge and better understanding of how your body and your bicycle work together. You and the bicycle become one. This is how the cycling experience is maximized.


Full FITT Procedure

Step 1: Interview

The fit begins with an extensive interview to establish a personal blueprint of the uniqueness you bring to the bike.

We will gather information about your life off the bike that relates directly to your comfort, efficiency and power on the bike. Lifestyle, fitness level, riding experience, prior injuries, surgeries and current physical concerns all play an important role in determining your ideal position.


Step 2: Foot Assessment

This is a very important aspect of the bike fit and absolutely essential for any rider who uses a clipped in pedal system. The interface between the foot, shoe, cleat and pedal is where it all begins. This is where all your power and efficiency originates.

This is also the source for the majority of foot, knee, hip and sometimes lower back issues that we encounter. Foot size and shape, degree of pronation, arch type, length and height, forefoot and posterior foot varus and valgas and metatarsal support are all evaluated here.


Step 3: Flexibility and Postural Assessment

Everyone has a unique body structure, determined by genetics, how we live our lives, and even what we do for a living. A person who sits in front of a computer all day will have a much different range of motion and flexibility than the fitness trainer, even if they were born identical twins. Chances are they would not be comfortable in the same position on the bike as well. Postural alignment, leg length differences, pelvic asymmetries, spinal flexibility, hamstring flexibility, and hip flexion range of motion, IT bands and internal hip flexors will all be assessed.


Step 4: On Bike Assessment

Everything we do on the bike is to ensure that the bike fits you. It makes more sense to change a stem, saddle position or handle bar position than to force one's body into a position that is unnatural. This process will result in a position that accommodates all of your natural bio-mechanics, removing excess pressure on all your joints.

Foot stability, cleat alignment, ankling pattern, knee tracking, pelvic angle, upper body alignment, arm and hand positions will all be optimized to ensure that you will be riding safely and comfortably for your current skill and fitness level. We will be asking for your feedback continually through this phase.


Step 5: Evaluation and Recommendations


We will do our best to adapt your existing equipment to you. However there may be changes that we will recommend to you. A new handlebar with shallower reach and drop to accommodate your arm and hand position, a different saddle that fits your body and riding style better or something as small as adding a wedge to one of your cleats. Any one of these small changes can make a world of difference in your ability to enjoy, perform well and ride safely on the bike.

If your bike is just the wrong size and or geometry for you, we will tell you so, and give you advice on what manufacturers makes, models and size would be a much better fit for you and your style of riding.

All of your data will be recorded, so that you will have a permanent record of all the key bike measurements.


To book a fitting contact:


or call Scott Judges at 416-346-9696

Wednesday, December 20, 2023

MERRY CHRISTMAS AND HAPPY HOLIDAYS

 


 FITT 1ST wishes all our clients and friends a Happy and Safe Holiday Season and a Joyous NEW YEAR

                                             May all your Cycling wishes come true for 2024


     Our hearts go out to those less fortunate areas of the World where Peace can never be taken for granted

                                      We should never loose sight of how fortunate we truly are.



Sunday, February 7, 2021

IS THE NEW SQ LAB ONE 12 BIBSHORT PERHAPS THE BEST BIBSHORT ON THE MARKET


Well if you ask me and the clients of mine that have been using them for the
last year, the answer would be a resounding YES. 

We at Fitt 1st are committed to enhancing the the cycling experience in any way we can so when we find a product like this we have no problem spreading the word

I've never used a bibshort that was so comfortable in the 25 years I've been riding. 
They conform to your body like they were custom made. 
They never catch the front of the saddle when you stand and resit. 
They don't pull on my shoulders. 
They provide just the right amount of compression to keep the legs fresh. 
They are nice and long in the thigh so that they don't catch your hamstring. 
They provide a solid supportive feel on the saddle, you don't get that diaper sqishy feel. 
They are reasonably priced at $289.00 ( available at Fitt 1st )

Description of SQlab ONE12 Bibshort

 

ONE12 : The short without compromise!


The SQlab Bibshort ONE 12 was developed for the highest demands in cycling. Highly elastic and extremely breathable materials improve performance and ensure the finest comfort levels.

Highlights of the SQlab ONE12 Bibshort

 

  • Perfect hold: Perforated shoulder straps made of elastic mesh material feel like a second skin, are extremely breathable and perfectly adapt to any body shape.
  • Optimal fit: The Luxury Italian “Extra Life” Lycra material provides perfect thermoregulation and allows for uninhibited movement.
  • Flatlock stitching: Flatlock stitched seams are extremely durable and ensure optimal comfort without creating any pressure zones.
  • Slip-free: Silicon infused elastic seams ensure a good hold without inhibiting blood circulation.


WHAT IS UNIQUE ABOUT THE CHAMOIS , THE HEART OF THE BIBSHORT


 Why hasn’t anyone thought of this before? The new SQ-Pad 12, has a maximum thickness of 4 mm and initially feels both exceptionally firm and of high quality. Everyone that rides regularly knows that for rides of over 30 min duration, a saddle with thin firm padding is considerably more comfortable than a saddle with thick soft padding. The same is true for a chamois. Most chamois are about 12 mm thick and soft – until now. The initial impression of the SQ-Pad 12 is very similar to that of a SQ Lab saddle, initially somewhat unfamiliar, but the more you ride the more comfortable it becomes, and adapts to the body perfectly without slipping.

Breathable comfort foam

A patented manufacturing technique achieves high breathability and excellent damping properties despite the foam being high density. In the process, 98% of the foam’s surface cells are broken up so that only the connection between the foam cells remains and make up the framework of the foam. This allows uncomfortable sweat around the perineum area which often leads to chafing to penetrate to the outside away from the body.


More advantages of the SQ-Pad 12:

  • No pressure zones: Compared to many other softer chamois on the market, the firm construction and low profile SQ-Pad holds its shape extremely well and is not pushed inwards by pedaling.
  • Optimal adaption: Over time the chamois will become more elastic and will perfectly adapt to the individual body shape without slipping.


Saturday, December 19, 2020

" PELETON / SPIN BIKE FITTS " NOW AVAILABLE AT FITT 1ST

Due to the growing popularity of Home Cycling FITT 1ST is pleased to announce 2 new fitting services for people with Peleton or similar types of home fitness bikes. Peleton Home Fitt $299.00 (done on your actual bike in the comfort of your own home and includes a full foot/cleat assessment and saddle analysis) Peleton Studio Fitt $199.00 ( done in the FITT 1ST studio on my sizing cycle, the measurements can then be taken home and transferred to your bike) Now you can enjoy the full benefits of your online LIVE workouts with the peace of mind that you are building fitness and muscle memory in the correct position with comfort and prevention of injury.

Saturday, July 25, 2020

Covid 19 Update

Now back to fitting 2 clients per day, Masks are required as per the local Toronto By-Law, however gloves are no longer mandatory. Physical distancing guidelines are still in effect

Stay Safe

Friday, April 17, 2020

SQ Lab launches their new 612R Ultralight Performace Road Saddle, Now available at FITT 1ST


SQ Lab 612R Carbon Features

* Shorter and narrower than other saddles, no more catching your shorts on the front of the saddle
* Shell incorporates side to side flex for better pelvic contact and compliance
* 5 mm raised rear for better grip, posture and power transmission
* Ergowave shape relieves soft tissue pressure
* Narrower mid section and nose for better thigh clearance, less chafing and better bio mechanics
* Ultra light cover is abrasion resistant and non slip
* Unisex design and available in 3 width's for most pelvic sizes
* Ultra light weight starting at just 125 gm 


I have personally ridden the regular 612 Carbon on all my bikes for the last 4 years 
and I have never sat on a saddle as comfortable as this. Kiss goodbye to crotch pressure, sitbone soreness and saddle sores  You will have more stability and control on the bike and should have less weight on your hands as well.

For a limited time ( till May 30th ) we are offering a FREE pelvic mapping (sitbone analysis) to determine the ideal saddle for you.  This service is free even if you do not end up purchasing an SQ Lab saddle and is vital information for you when looking for that perfect saddle fit for you. No more guess work and endless $$ put out on saddles that just aren't comfortable.

The SQ Lab 612R and other excellent SQ Lab saddle models for all riders and cycling disciplines, Road, Mountain, Cross,Tri are available now at FITT 1ST

Contact us to set up an appt. for your personal free analysis. Now is also an excellent time to have a bike fit done. 
Call or Text at 416-346-9696, email at fitt1stbikefitting@gmail.com or look us up on Google check out our reviews and contact us through the Google link

Again, stay safe out there, promote social distancing and lets crush the curve so we can be crushing the pedals out there with our cycling friends as soon as it is safe to do so.

Saturday, April 4, 2020

Covid 19 Update

We are open for business, however for everyone's protection due to the current Covid19 situation we are limiting bike fits to one person per day to prevent cross client contact. Studio equipment will be disinfected before the start of each fit

Clients are asked to wear a mask and gloves if possible in the studio, as we do and practice physical distancing during the process. 

Everyone please stay safe out there.

Sunday, December 8, 2019

1969 MANUFRANCE HIRONDELLE " MY FIRST RACING BIKE "

Just have to share a small story with you all.

When I was 14,  I had already been working for 2 years and saving my pennies.

One day I walked in to a bike shop in my neighborhood and my eyes fell on a brand new French racing bike. Nothing like anything I had ever seen before.  In my mind this was my " Red Rider BB gun " and I had to have it.

It took all the money I had plus a small $$ contribution from my father and it was mine.

I rode it tirelessly for the next 4 years until my 2nd year in University when it was taken from me.

I never forgot this bike and I have been looking for another one for the last 35 years and was never able to find one until 2 weeks ago. .

I bought it from a fellow in San Antonio Texas and it is exactly the same year and colour as mine was, with all the same components. What are the chances of that, and it is in really good condition to boot.

Unfortunately he would not ship it to Canada, so I had it shipped to a UPS store in Lewiston NY and I went and picked it up 2 days ago

Just shows you that never giving up pays off.  I had to pay 3X what I originally paid for the bike in 1969, but it is well worth it.  To be honest with you, it's priceless to me

Here is a picture




About to move inside for Winter Training. What should you do??

Outdoor riding season was cut a little short this year in our neck of the woods this year. Already over 25 cm's of snow has fallen and its only the first week in December.

Fear not some excellent indoor training can set you up well for next season's goals and now is the BEST TIME of the year to have a bike fit done.

Why you ask?

You are about to put 4 - 5 good month's of indoor training in.  Don't you want to make sure that all the muscle memory you are going to build is in the best position possible?

A lot of people ask me why riding indoors seems to be a lot more uncomfortable than riding on the road.

Here's why...

Riding outside is a much more DYNAMIC experience, your body is constantly moving around adjusting to the wind, the other riders around you and the conditions of the weather road itself.

Riding indoors is a much more STATIC experience, mostly staying seated all the time, never getting to coast, no recovery downhill sections etc. As a result your body doesn't experience as much variation in its position so your muscles get fatigued more quickly and you may get some aches and pains that do not happen out on the road

Being in a static position periods of time will bring out all the flaws in your pedal stroke that you not feel outdoors and riding on a constant flat for long periods on time doesn't help the nether regions either

Here's a HINT

Most of us train with our bike in a position which mimics a flat road, which means that the distance from the ground up to your rear skewer centre is the same as the distance from the ground up to your front skewer.

Try lifting up the front wheel so that it is about an inch higher than the back wheel.  This will mimic riding on a 2 percent grade.

What this will do for you is shift your weight back a bit and give you what we like to call in the industry " a better seat ". That will take a little pressure off the crotch and allow you to train longer and harder with more comfort.

If you get bored, try riding outside in the winter on a warmer dry day.

Although you can build muscles indoors, you build character outdoors

 

Wednesday, February 1, 2017

PRIME BIKE HUNTING AND FITTING SEASON

We just headed in to February and most of us are thinking that there is still a good eight weeks of winter left.
That's the Pessimist's way of looking at things.

Now the Optimist's way of looking at things... I still have eight weeks left of good indoor or outdoor (character building) training left before my first outdoor ride of the Spring season.

These next  eight weeks are very important in other ways as well, especially if you are looking to buy a new bike this Spring.

The Toronto Bike Show is just over a month away running from Mar 3 - 5th 2017 at the Better Living Centre at Exhibition Place in Toronto and can be a great place to buy a bike, with dozens of retailer's competing for your business.

Shopping at the Bike show for a new bike can be either an exhaustive, stressful experience or a relaxing, pleasurable one.

How do we ensure the latter rather than the former

It all starts with knowing exactly what bike manufacturer, model, size, geometry and components are best for your type of riding, current physical condition and body morphology,

If you know this ahead of time then shopping for a new bike becomes FUN!!

Well, if you want to have fun buying a bike this Spring it all starts with a bike fit

By getting a sizing cycle fit done prior to your purchase you will know exactly what you need to know to purchase your bike with confidence and not have to change or upgrade any parts afterwards at big costs.

What is the best size and  geometry for your specific build and riding style
Which makes of bikes best suit me
What is the best size and shape of saddle for you
What handlebar size and shape is best for you
What crank length is best
What stem length is ideal

Your negotiating power goes up because you will know exactly what you need and if the bike doesn't come with the size parts you need you may be able to get them exchanged as part of the deal and not have to pay extra to have them changed after the purchase. Bike shops may bend a little more and exchange parts for free in order to get the sale 

You will also learn how to read bicycle geometry charts, so that you can be better informed on how to compare different Manufacturers bikes. You can take your time to research different bikes over the next month. the process takes about 1.5 hrs and the cost is $139.00. A cost you will more than recover with the money you will save from your enhanced negotiating position and most importantly not end up with a bike that doesn't fit you properly and ultimately have to replace it at considerable expense.

One brands size 54 is not necessarily the same as another brands size 54 and how does a size XXS or XL fit in the overall picture.

So if a new bike is in the cards for you this Spring year or you are thinking of buying one for a significant other, Have a sizing cycle fit done and spend your hard earned $$ wisely.

After you have bought your new bike, you should consider having a full bike fit done as well.  That's where all the real benefits are realized. 








Thursday, February 11, 2016

NEW STUDIO UP AND RUNNING

Pleased to announce that my new studio is open for business at :

1450 O'Connor Dr. Building 2 Unit 105, Toronto M4B 2T8 ( see map on main page )

Today's victim  Dan L
I will be holding an Open House on Saturday Feb 20th from 10:00 am - 3:00 pm. Refreshments and complimentary advise will be served and there will be a special one day only 50% off sale on all remaining in stock 2015 Outwet High Tech Performance Wear products. You will also have the opportunity to order anything from the 2016 Catalog at 25% off for delivery in early April. There are several new exciting carbon products in the line up for 2016

                                                      Here are the specific directions on how to get to the studio itself:
Once you get to 1450 O'Connor Dr. turn in to the driveway immediately south of Tim Horton's.You will go past a Guardian Drug store on the left and the Tim Horton's on the right and straight ahead you will see 1450 O'Connor Dr Building 2 in behind. 

My unit is located on the far left hand side of Building 2 on the main floor. 

Enter through the double doors on the far left side of the building and I am the first door on the left. You will be able to see the FITT 1ST. com decals on the windows of my unit from the parking lot.

The new location has an abundance of natural light and plenty of FREE parking right outside the door.

Bring your friends, hope to see you all, and if I don't have a great cycling season in 2016.