When you think about improving your cycling performance, you probably focus on training, nutrition, and recovery. But at the heart of it all is something happening on a much smaller scale: cellular metabolism. This process fuels every pedal stroke and powers your body through intense climbs and long endurance rides. Understanding how your body converts … Continue reading Cellular Metabolism 101: The Basics for Cyclists
Author: Bryan Coward
Amateur cyclist and outdoor junky.
The Role of Genetics in Cycling Performance
When it comes to endurance cycling, genetics can play a significant role in determining an athlete's potential. From muscle composition to oxygen efficiency, the traits you're born with influence how far—and fast—you can ride. However, while genetics provide a foundation, training and hard work are still the biggest determinants of success. Let’s explore how inherited … Continue reading The Role of Genetics in Cycling Performance
Understanding Fatigue: Central vs. Peripheral Fatigue in Cyclists
Fatigue is a common companion for cyclists, especially during long rides or intense training blocks. But not all fatigue is the same. Understanding the different types of fatigue, particularly central and peripheral fatigue, can help you tailor your training, recovery, and performance strategies more effectively. Let’s explore the causes, effects, and ways to manage these … Continue reading Understanding Fatigue: Central vs. Peripheral Fatigue in Cyclists
How Heat and Humidity Affect Cycling Performance
Cycling in hot and humid conditions presents unique challenges that can push even the most experienced athletes to their limits. Understanding how your body responds to these conditions and how to adapt your training and race strategies can make a big difference in both performance and safety. This post dives into the physiological effects of … Continue reading How Heat and Humidity Affect Cycling Performance
The Impact of Altitude on Endurance Cycling
Altitude plays a significant role in endurance sports, particularly in cycling, where oxygen availability can drastically affect performance. Whether you’re riding in the high mountains or training at altitude to gain an edge, understanding how the body reacts to these conditions is crucial. Let's explore how altitude impacts physiology, performance, and training for endurance cyclists. … Continue reading The Impact of Altitude on Endurance Cycling
Understanding Power-to-Weight Ratio (PWR) in Cycling | Optimizing Performance
Power-to-weight ratio (PWR) is one of those metrics that gets a lot of attention in cycling circles, especially when the road starts to tilt upwards. But what exactly does it mean, and how much does it really affect your performance? While PWR is often seen as a predictor of success, it's better thought of as … Continue reading Understanding Power-to-Weight Ratio (PWR) in Cycling | Optimizing Performance
Heart Rate Zone Training for Endurance Athletes: A Complete Guide to Maximizing Performance
Heart Rate Based Endurance Training: Heart Rate Zones Explained Introduction In the early days of endurance training, heart rate was a mysterious yet tantalizing measure for athletes looking to push their limits. Innovators like Dr. Phil Maffetone and exercise physiologist Andy Coggan were among the first to explore how heart rate could be used to … Continue reading Heart Rate Zone Training for Endurance Athletes: A Complete Guide to Maximizing Performance
Lactate Threshold and why it matters;
Cycling performance is influenced by several physiological factors, one of the most critical being the lactate threshold. Understanding and improving this threshold can significantly enhance endurance and overall performance on the bike. Understanding Lactate Threshold Lactate threshold refers to the exercise intensity at which lactate begins to accumulate in the blood faster than it can … Continue reading Lactate Threshold and why it matters;
Aerobic vs. Anaerobic Energy Systems in Cycling
Cycling performance hinges on the body’s ability to produce energy, which involves two key systems: aerobic and anaerobic metabolism. A deep understanding of these energy systems is essential for optimizing training and achieving peak performance. Understanding Energy Systems Aerobic metabolism, the cornerstone of endurance cycling, occurs when oxygen is available to the muscles, allowing for … Continue reading Aerobic vs. Anaerobic Energy Systems in Cycling
The Physiology of Endurance Cycling: An Introduction
Basic Physiology Concepts Endurance cycling places unique demands on the human body, requiring a deep understanding of the physiological mechanisms that support prolonged physical activity. Central to this are the types of muscle fibers and the pathways through which energy is produced. Muscle fibers can be broadly categorized into two types: Type I (slow-twitch) and … Continue reading The Physiology of Endurance Cycling: An Introduction
