Question: I'm overweight (6-foot, 230 pounds) and I'm slow. How can I lose weight and get fast enough to hold my own on fast group rides? — Davis K. Coach Fred Mantheny Replies: You would see a big improvement in your speed, especially on climbs, if you were lighter. This is assuming that your extra weight is fat rather than muscle. If you are 230 and 10 percent body fat, you … [Read more...] about How Can I Lose Fat And Get Faster?
Weight Loss
Will a Low Carb Diet Make You Slow as a Cyclist?
Question: Last winter I adopted a low-carbohydrate diet and lost 20 pounds. I'm continuing the diet but wonder if lack of carbs is the cause of my struggles on the bike. While I've improved my average speed on solo rides, I can't keep up with my friends on Sunday morning. I'm fine when the pace is steady, but if they sprint I'm off the back. How do I maintain low body weight … [Read more...] about Will a Low Carb Diet Make You Slow as a Cyclist?
Should a Lean Rider Lose More Weight?
Question: I'm 6-foot-5, 180 pounds, 10% body fat, 46 years old. Is it a rational objective to lose weight to become a better climber? I love to eat, so it's hard to avoid the goodies -- especially if depriving myself won't help me improve. -- Doug S. Coach Fred Matheny Replies: Weight loss when you already have a low body fat percentage can be tricky. It's tempting to think … [Read more...] about Should a Lean Rider Lose More Weight?
Why Have I Gained So Much Weight?
Question: Since April I've been strictly watching my food intake, exercising and taking a weight-loss supplement with ephedra. But I've gained 30 pounds! I think the exercise is overdeveloping my quads and inner thighs. I eat only 1,300 calories a day and try to burn most of it in the gym or on the bike. My gym's fitness manager thinks I'm not eating enough and my … [Read more...] about Why Have I Gained So Much Weight?
How Can I Shed Heavy Muscle
Question: I'm 6 feet, 195 pounds with thick muscles from playing college football. I've been riding 5,000 miles a year for several years but haven't gotten lighter. How can I eliminate my bulky muscle and get down to optimal riding weight? -- Boo W. Coach Fred Matheny Replies: I was in your situation, too, Boo. I played college football at 205 pounds and am … [Read more...] about How Can I Shed Heavy Muscle