Conventional wisdom says that a smooth pedal stroke makes you faster. But we've seen studies arguing that it's the other way around: Fitness contributes to a smooth pedal stroke. The fitter and faster you become, the easier it is to pedal smoothly at a given intensity. … [Read more...] about Quick Tip: Pedal Like a Pro
1Training & Health
Quick Tip: Shift Into a Harder Gear to Smooth Out Rough Roads
You'll see the pros do this on cobblestone sections in events such as Paris-Roubaix. Let's say you're cruising along in a 53x19-tooth gear. Spinning and grinning. But uh-oh, here comes a gnarly stretch of bumpy, patched pavement. … [Read more...] about Quick Tip: Shift Into a Harder Gear to Smooth Out Rough Roads
How to Eat and Drink Safely Riding with a Group
Have you ever been in a fast group on a long ride? You can get so focused on sticking with the paceline that you're too busy, or too nervous, to eat and drink. That's a real problem because soon you're bonked, dehydrated and struggling to maintain the pace. It's dangerous, too, because a tired rider is a squirrelly rider. … [Read more...] about How to Eat and Drink Safely Riding with a Group
Sweat Mineral Losses and Antioxidants
By Arnie Baker, M.D. Sweat Mineral Losses Minerals are lost in sweat. Prolonged exercise, especially in the heat, has the potential to create mineral deficiencies. Is during-exercise replacement necessary? To answer this question we need to know: Is the amount of mineral lost in sweat significant? Are daily intakes typically greater than possible sweat losses? Are … [Read more...] about Sweat Mineral Losses and Antioxidants
Ride, Eat, Enjoy
By Coach John Hughes Ever hit the wall? Then you understand the title of this column! In last week’s newsletter there was an excellent column Cycling Nutrition: How to Eat during Rides by Arnie Baker, MD. I’ve coached at camps with Dr. Baker and have several of his books. His key points are: … [Read more...] about Ride, Eat, Enjoy