Will Cycling Up Hills in Big Gears Hurt My Knees?
Question: A friend tells me that I can improve my climbing power by riding a steep half-mile-long hill in the big ring at a slow cadence. Wouldn’t that ruin my knees? – Jerry S.
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What Climbing Cadence is Best for Knees?
QUESTION: I’ve heard that it’s better for knees if you spin a lower gear on climbs rather than mash a big gear. Why is it harder on the knees to pedal at a slower rpm? What about pedaling slowly when out of the saddle? — Jim M. RBR REPLIES: Good questions! The important element here…
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Do More Miles Produce More Strength?
QUESTION: It appears that the strongest cyclists on our club rides are those who do the most miles before the official start. Some guys show up after already riding 20 or 30 miles. Do I worry too much about resting so I get to the ride fresh? — Dino A. ROAD BIKE RIDER REPLIES: That’s…
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Is My Cycling Fitness Doomed By My Age and Work Schedule?
QUESTION: I need your advice on my training schedule. I work 4 consecutive days of 13 hours each, then have 4 days off when I have unlimited time to ride. I usually do 2-4 hours, but especially on the first day I feel sluggish. I just turned 50, and my fitness and endurance seem to be…
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Why Didn’t My Hard Winter Training Pay Off?
QUESTION: I invested in a power meter last fall and worked hard on the indoor trainer all winter. I did tough workouts three days a week with lots of intervals. On the weekend I cross-county skied for hours and even entered a few races. I figured I’d be flying in March, but instead I’m lagging off…
