* Good quality saddle - not too soft, that may cause numbness. Anatomical cutouts in saddle are good for preventing numbness. Make sure the horn of the saddle does not crush sensitive spots. Sitbones must do the supporting work.
* Don't pedal too slow - this is a common mistake for beginners and is hard on the knees. Pedalling faster is like light aerobic exercise - you can keep it up for longer. Pedalling slow is like lifting heavy weights - you can only do a few and then you must head for the shower. Knees may give problems later on if pedalling too slowly.
I know this was posted in 2006, but that is so helpfull torward dealing with my knee pain and periodic foot numbness. Will look for a less soft seat and try to stick to higher gears when not on hills.