Whats the obsession with weight training among cyclists? Are we really buying into the idea that spending hours in the gym is going to magically translate to improved performance on the bike? Ive seen guys who can squat a small car but cant sustain a decent pace on a climb to save their lives.
Meanwhile, the pros are out there logging thousands of miles a year and getting by just fine without all the extra bulk. Im not saying strength work cant be beneficial, but is it really worth sacrificing precious time that could be spent on the bike? It seems like were putting the cart before the horse here.
Ive heard the arguments about increased power output and improved endurance, but Im still not convinced. If Im doing 20 hours a week on the bike, shouldnt that be enough to build the strength and endurance I need? And what about the added risk of injury from all the heavy lifting? Are we really getting a good return on investment here?
Im not trying to dismiss the importance of strength training outright, but it seems like were getting a bit carried away with the whole gym-rat thing. Can someone explain to me why I should be spending more time with a barbell than a bike? Whats the real-world benefit for a recreational rider like myself? Is it really worth it, or are we just jumping on the latest bandwagon?
Meanwhile, the pros are out there logging thousands of miles a year and getting by just fine without all the extra bulk. Im not saying strength work cant be beneficial, but is it really worth sacrificing precious time that could be spent on the bike? It seems like were putting the cart before the horse here.
Ive heard the arguments about increased power output and improved endurance, but Im still not convinced. If Im doing 20 hours a week on the bike, shouldnt that be enough to build the strength and endurance I need? And what about the added risk of injury from all the heavy lifting? Are we really getting a good return on investment here?
Im not trying to dismiss the importance of strength training outright, but it seems like were getting a bit carried away with the whole gym-rat thing. Can someone explain to me why I should be spending more time with a barbell than a bike? Whats the real-world benefit for a recreational rider like myself? Is it really worth it, or are we just jumping on the latest bandwagon?