How to become a complete cyclist

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Although the primary focus of increased performance in cycling is endurance, a proper resistance training program can have incredible benefits. Training your body to gain strength with a balanced program and emphasis on cycling-specific movements and muscle groups can have immense benefits. Why is is so important to incorporate resistance training into your cycling regimen? A Personal Training St Louis facility can assist you in defining and reaching your specific cycling goals.

1) A strong core is important to have to increase the efficiency of your pedal stroke. Strength in this area allows the rigidity for the legs to maximize their force.

2) Muscular strength specific to cycling will improve your short bursts while riding such as steep hills. Proper strength training may make the difference between walking and riding up.

3) Upper body strength may also increase the power to handle falls and the stableness to handle sharp turns. Hill climbs are also highly dependent upon upper body strength.

4) May also prevent weariness during your rides

Some basic things to consider while developing a cycling-specific training program are to:

1) Train the body evenly and symmetrically- train both sides independently and evenly and make sure to include upper, lower, and core movements and all of the supportive musculature

2) Focus on training each major muscle group at least twice per week, preferably not on adjacent days

3) As is pertains to cycling, be sure to include core, quad, hamstring, and glute development. These muscle groups are the primary “drivers” in cycling.

Traditionally, endurance sports have gotten a false, bad rap about adding resistance training to their program. These types of athletes were concerned about gaining bulk that would interpose with the performance of their sport. Research has shown that this is completely false. Sport-specific training programs are designed to enhance the performance of the sport, strengthen the sport-specific musculature, prevent injuries, and maintain the flexibility craved for the sport.

It remains very important to incorporate a rigorous flexibility program when implementing resistance into a cycling program. Failure to do so may result in an increased risk for pain when participating in the actual sport. Enlisting the assistance of a Saint Louis Personal Trainer, may be the boost that you need to develop a cycling specific program that is tailored to your needs.