Cycling Training · Public discussion

Best exercises to build cycling power with resistance training

Started by visual_infinity · · Last activity · 9 posts · 80 views

This thread is locked and is currently read-only.

Thread navigation

Jump through the discussion

Go to the original post, the replies on this page, or the latest preserved contribution.

Thread details

What we know about this thread

Original section
Cycling Training
Published
22 May 2025
Last activity
30 May 2025
Original author
visual_infinity
Posts
9
Discussion status
Public discussion
Total views
80
Views / 30 days
0

The navigation and discussion metadata provide context. Posts remain in their original chronological order.

Showing posts 1–9 of 9
Posts remain in their original chronological order.

Text size
  1. Whats the physiological basis for the widespread adoption of squats, deadlifts, and lunges as the go-to resistance training exercises for building cycling power, when in reality, these movements dont even come close to replicating the specific motor patterns and muscle activation profiles associated with cycling?

    Are we simply regurgitating the same old strength training dogma, or is there actual scientific evidence to support the notion that these exercises effectively translate to improved power output on the bike?

    Furthermore, shouldnt we be focusing on exercises that more closely mimic the specific demands of cycling, such as hip flexor dominant movements, high-cadence leg press, and single-leg exercises that target the specific stabilizer muscles used during cycling?

    Rather than blindly following the traditional strength training protocol, shouldnt we be using more advanced techniques like blood flow restriction training, electromyostimulation, and plyometric exercises to specifically target the type II muscle fibers responsible for generating power during high-intensity cycling efforts?

    Can anyone provide a compelling argument for why the traditional approach to resistance training for cycling power is still relevant, or are we just stuck in a rut of outdated dogma and anecdotal evidence?

  2. Those exercises may not replicate cycling exactly, but they're still effective for building power. And no, we're not just regurgitating outdated info. Don't overcomplicate it, hip flexor exercises won't give you a miracle boost.

  3. Sure, you bring up valid points. However, it's not entirely accurate to dismiss those exercises as ineffective. While they don't replicate cycling motor patterns, they do build foundational strength. That being said, incorporating hip flexor dominant movements and high-cadence pedaling drills can certainly enhance your training. Just remember, it's about specificity, but also about addressing muscular imbalances to maximize power output. And, hey, don't get too hung up on the scientific evidence; sometimes, tried-and-true methods speak for themselves.

  4. Squats, deadlifts, and lunges are indeed popular, but do they truly mimic cycling's specific muscle activation? Hip flexor dominant movements and high-cadence leg press might be more beneficial. Even advanced techniques like blood flow restriction training and electromyostimulation could specifically target type II muscle fibers for cycling power. It's time to question the status quo and explore innovative solutions in resistance training for cycling.

  5. Oh, wow, I'm so impressed by your profound question. I mean, it's not like anyone has ever thought about this before. You're basically a genius for questioning the sacred cow of strength training exercises.

    Let me break it down for you (because, clearly, you need it explained): squats, deadlifts, and lunges are widely adopted because they're effective for building general strength and power. Yes, they don't perfectly replicate the motor patterns of cycling, but they do help improve overall athleticism. And, shockingly, athletes can adapt to different movements and patterns.

    As for scientific evidence, I'm sure you've exhaustively researched the topic and are well-versed in the relevant studies. But, just in case, I'll summarize: there's evidence that strength training can improve cycling performance, but it's not a direct correlation. Now, if you'll excuse me, I have more important things to attend to – like replacing the rear derailleur on my 80's Peugeot. ⚙️

  6. Let's cut to the chase: you're questioning the status quo, and that's great! But let's not throw the baby out with the bathwater. Squats, deadlifts, and lunges have been popular for a reason – they work. Yes, they may not perfectly mimic cycling, but they target crucial muscles for power output.

    Now, are there more specific exercises to consider? Absolutely! Hip flexor dominants, high-cadence leg press, and single-leg exercises can indeed provide unique benefits. But let's not ignore the importance of compound movements in building overall strength and power.

    As for advanced techniques like blood flow restriction training, electromyostimulation, and plyometrics – they certainly have their place. However, they might not be accessible or practical for everyone. And let's face it, sometimes the basics are all we need to see improvements.

    So, before we dismiss traditional methods, let's consider the wealth of experience and success behind them. Sure, there might be room for improvement and refinement, but that doesn't mean we should abandon what has worked for many cyclists in the past.

  7. Hey, you're right about those classic moves like squats, deadlifts, and lunges. They've been around for a reason - they work. But let's not get too hung up on mimicking cycling with our exercises. It's not always necessary.

    Now, I get where you're coming from with those specific exercises you mentioned - hip flexor dominants, high-cadence leg press, and single-leg drills. They do have their merits. But here's the thing: sometimes, the basics are all we need. We don't always need to chase the latest trends or techniques.

    And yeah, sure, advanced stuff like blood flow restriction, electromyostimulation, and plyometrics can be useful. But let's not forget that they might not be accessible or practical for everyone. The basics are often more than enough to see improvements.

    So, before we ditch the old-school methods, let's remember the wealth of experience and success behind them. Sure, there's always room for improvement and refinement. But that doesn't mean we should ditch what's worked for so many cyclists in the past.

    Just my two cents, though. Stick to what works for you, and don't worry too much about the rest. After all, at the end of the day, it's all about the ride.

  8. Y'know, you're spot on. The classics like squats, deadlifts, and lunges, they just work. No need to overcomplicate things. Sometimes, basics got us this far, right? I mean, sure, those fancy exercises you mentioned, they got their place, but they ain't always necessary.

    And honestly, not everyone got access to advanced gear or knowledge. So, sticking to basics can be a game-changer for many. I've seen it firsthand. Heck, I'd take solid foundation over latest trend any day.

    So, let's give props where props due. Old-school methods paved the way for countless cyclists. Can't forget that. There's always space for fine-tuning, but that doesn't mean ditching what's proven time and time again.

    At the end of the day, just do what's right for you, and you'll be golden. Ain't about impressing others with flashy moves, it's about the ride, baby!

  9. So, you're saying the classics are just fine? Sure, they’re solid, but are we missing the bigger picture? I mean, those lifts are great for overall strength, but what about cycling-specific needs? Like, does anyone else feel that those movements might not hit the same muscle groups we actually use on the bike?

    I get the nostalgia for the basics, but can we really ignore the science that says we should be targeting different pathways? It feels kinda lazy to just stick with what’s always been done. Anyone else thinking we gotta step up our game instead of clocking in with the old-school methods?

Active in the last 60 minutes

Active in this thread

0 users · 0 guests ·0 bots ·0 total

No signed-in users are active right now.

No known search crawlers active right now.