Q.Should I push, pull or both with clipless pedals?
A.Clipless pedals were designed for the specific ability to pull up on the pedal stroke. Being able to pull up with the back foot compared to pushing down with the front foot enables you to create approximately 35% more torque with the same amount of effort. The most obvious scenario you will “feel” the difference is while climbing in the saddle. Even beginner cyclists can tell an immediate difference in power output…..and speed.
If your pedal stroke is correct, you should never push with your front foot. After the back foot has completed the pulling up stroke, the momentum created automatically places the front foot in the correct position to immediately pull up. Of course, there are always exceptions to the rule.
Q. What is the most efficient way to breathe?
A. Always breathe by filling up your diaphragm first, then fill up your upper chest. The downside to just filling up your upper chest is that you are robbing your body to intake the maximum amount of air which directly affects, for example, how fast you can recover from exertion.
Q.How can I shorten my recovery time?
A.Learn how to breathe correctly.
Q.Can I ever get better at climbing?
A. Absolutely. There are several things to focus on but I always start with the same question….How strong is your core? Start there first. MYCYCLECOACH.COM can custom design a training program based on your current ability that can turn you into a climbing machine.
Q.What are your responsibilities when riding in a group?
A.Keep a consistent speed. Learn to transition correctly…that doesn’t drop the front guy in the dust. Learn to draft correctly. Yes, you have responsibilities when you are drafted and when you are drafting. Learn the mannerisms of those you ride with….it might save your skin one day. Learn to ride in the safest place in the peloton based on the current conditions. Learn to transition out and in the saddle that won’t put the rider behind you in danger.
Q.How comfortable are you in bike handling skills and balance?
If you rate yourself other than very comfortable, this directly affects your bike handling skills, your safety and the
safety of those around you. Learn controlled fast and slow stops (with clipless pedals). Learn to you keep your
balance while riding very slowly using clipless pedals. Learn to start on an incline using clipless pedals and stay
in control. MYCYCLECOACH.COM has developed specific routines that address these and many other issues.
Being in control and aware at all times is paramount.
