Question: I’m a relatively new rider and have read that a higher cadence is better, so I’m trying to increase mine to 100 rpm. I have no trouble maintaining 95-100 with my bike on a trainer, but when I reach 95 on the road, it feels unnatural. Is there something about riding outside that makes…
Question: I took up cycling three years ago and have gotten progressively addicted. Last year I rode almost 15,000 miles including many centuries. I could do it because I lived in Arizona. But I moved to Wisconsin in September and can’t ride outside due to the cold and snow. I’m getting depressed and morose. This…
Question: I live where the snow starts flying in October and ends in late June. I cross-county ski to retain my aerobic conditioning, but do you have any suggestions on how to keep my legs in cycling shape too? — Steve K. Coach Fred Matheny Replies: The best advice I’ve heard is from three-time Tour…
Question: Snowshoeing has become the hot crosstraining sport among the local cyclists in my area, but I don’t see the connection to riding a bike. What’s the carryover to cycling? — Tammi W. Coach Fred Matheny Replies: I love snowshoeing! Unlike cross-country skiing, it has a shallow learning curve. You don’t need much technique to…
Question: A few weeks ago, you said you were forgoing winter weight training for your legs in favor of low-cadence/high-resistance riding on an indoor trainer. I’m wondering how that’s going. — Vlad L. Coach Fred Matheny Replies: As of mid January, I’m pleased with the program. I’m lifting weights two or three times each week,…
