Can we talk about....snot?

[MollyJ]

I find that when I bicycle it is not uncommon for me to have a runny nose. I do not think this is uncommon. So I do a fair amount of periodic sniffing and occasional stopping to blow my nose but...a running friend of mine posted a link to a Runner's World clip about the "Farmer's Snot Rocket".

http://www.runnersworld.com/running-tips/5-steps-perfect-snot-rocket#.UU83pt3ZMrU.facebook

So do cyclists use this technique for snot management?

Any tips?

[Kernyl]

I have used it with some frequency. My nose is constantly running when I ride my bike, with allergy season starting soon, it is about to get even worse. I get sick of sniffling. I have to wash my gloves once a week because I am always wiping my nose too.

I find it refreshing! Just try to avoid pointing your nose at other people when doing it.

[murielalex]

If riding in a group, I wait until I'm in the rear, but I've gotten perfectly comfortable blowing snot. Never thought I'd do that or say it, but it's necessary.

[Penny4]

I've never attempted it. I usually use my glove, or in desperate times the front inside of my shirt. Given that I can't even spit properly (got it all over myself a few weeks ago, wwwww) I really don't think i am ready for a snot rocket.

I was on a group ride the other day and saw a guy do it (he followed etiquette by making sure no one was nearby) and it was DEEESUGSTING!! Maybe I am just jealous i can't do it myself.

That video was hysterical because they were so serious, lol.

[OakLeaf]

try to avoid pointing your nose at other people when doing it.

Or more generally, because accidental snotifying is just as nasty as intentional ... as with any projectile, know what's downrange before you fire. :D

[Becky]

Yes, I do it all the time. It's better than having a raw nose from constantly wiping it.

Start by practicing into a tissue instead of blowing your nose the normal way. Once you're comfortable with that, move on to actual outdoor snot rockets.

[Jolt]

Couldn't help thinking this song was appropriate for this thread...
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jDZ8SCES0YE

[Jo-n-NY]

If riding in a group, I wait until I'm in the rear, but I've gotten perfectly comfortable blowing snot. Never thought I'd do that or say it, but it's necessary.

+1, me too :)

[SheFly]

Constantly! My mother thinks it's disgusting, but she doesn't ride with me ;). As others have said - wait until you are in the rear, or at least be sure you aren't going to share with your fellow riders when you do it. I once had a friend in a CX race (who was behind me) tell me that I was a very considerate snot rocket blower :).

SheFly

[Norse]

The Snot Rocket is a part of bike riding!

[MollyJ]

Thanks to everyone. I learned a lot. I think I will practice this blowing into a kleenex but I am just relieved to know there is something I can do to take care of that annoying drippy nose.

[marni]

oh let's hear it for "Exercise Induced Rhinitis". That is wh I wash m gloves after every ride and rotate through 4 or 5 sets of gloves. Between the AIR and allergies, this is not m best season because I snort and sniff constantl and blow whenever possible.

[MollyJ]

I can never figure out if the *snot* is related to head forward and down position OR allergens in the air OR sometimes cool air OR exercise OR wind OR something else. All I know is that there will be snot.

[Catrin]

I can never figure out if the *snot* is related to head forward and down position OR allergens in the air OR sometimes cool air OR exercise OR wind OR something else. All I know is that there will be snot.

For me it is purely temp. related. when temps hit 50 or so it does not happen again until fall...

[Sky King]

ER doc "how did you crash" rider "I was attempting a snot rocket without getting it all over myself" - Okay just kidding. I am not very good at snot rockets so I actually carry a hanky and I use my glove when I am wearing them and my jersey. Plus lots of chapstick to ward off sore nose. :)~

[TigerMom]

You gals are hilarious!

I am a glove person. I would probably fail at the snot rocket and get mucous all over myself.

[OakLeaf]

I would probably fail at the snot rocket and get mucous all over myself.

That's why I don't necessarily think practicing into a tissue is such a great idea. You don't want to get in the habit of putting your arm in the way. Practice into your garden or in the shower...

[zoom-zoom]

ER doc "how did you crash" rider "I was attempting a snot rocket without getting it all over myself" - Okay just kidding. I am not very good at snot rockets so I actually carry a hanky and I use my glove when I am wearing them and my jersey. Plus lots of chapstick to ward off sore nose. :)~

This. I always ride with a hanky...either for snot or sweat. I have a little case on my top tube where I stuff it when not in use. During CX races I will tie it around my wrist. I always run with it, too.

[redrhodie]

Constantly! My mother thinks it's disgusting, but she doesn't ride with me ;). As others have said - wait until you are in the rear, or at least be sure you aren't going to share with your fellow riders when you do it. I once had a friend in a CX race (who was behind me) tell me that I was a very considerate snot rocket blower :).

SheFly

See, there's your problem. Use the snot rocket as a tactic, a snot missile if you will.

Aren't you glad I don't race!

[MollyJ]

I've been practicing my snot rocket and it's only been medium successful. First I think you need a critical mass of snot. I don't seem to have "enough" snot sometimes. Just a runny nose. ALso I have not mastered the inhale and blow out through your nose thing. Practice makes...improved.

[AppleTree]

Gives new meaning to the term "critical mass" though. LOL.