In the late 19th century as cycling grew in popularity, doctors began warning users of the danger of a fictitious disease known as “Bike Face.” The term was invented to discourage women from bicycling, because it gave them the freedom and mobility to travel from their homes. The invention also encouraged the development of more practical clothing for women, all of which was extremely upsetting to traditionalists.
As a result, there was a big backlash, and many doctors claimed women could suffer permanent disfigurement from the exertion of cycling. To learn more about the health scare, head over to Vox.
