Question: I’m a long-time runner who recently switched to cycling due to knee problems. My injuries limited me to about 30 running miles per week, but now I can ride as much as I want and often do 300 miles per week. I always felt fresh and ready to run races, but now I often…
Question: I climb a lot better when I’m sitting. If I stand even for 30 seconds, my cadence slows, I lose momentum, and I get winded. Should I try to learn how to stand or just stay in the saddle? I’m 5-foot-10 and 168 pounds with about 10 percent body fat. — Curt P. Coach…
If you’ve been in this sport for long, you’ve probably seen it happen. An enthusiastic person shows up for his (or her) first ride with the local club. He’s a bit intimidated by the lingo he overhears, but that’s nothing compared to his anxiety about what to do and how to do it once the…
By Coach Fred Matheny Solo rides are a great part of the cycling experience. Nothing beats cruising along and looking at the scenery, or attacking a climb at your own pace and intensity. But riding with a small group can be even more fun. You cover ground faster, meet people, and experience the thrill of…
Question: I’m a “masher” when I pedal. I push down hard. My riding friends say I need to develop a smoother pedal stroke. Why? — Bill B. Coach Fred Matheny Replies: The short answer is, “Mashers” waste energy. According to biomechanist Jeff Broker, Ph.D, there’s a great deal of oscillation in the pedal stroke. A…
