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Weight training for cyclists: Focus on improving endurance

Started by aih312 · · Last activity · 6 posts · 26 views

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01 / Original postWeight training for cyclists: Focus on improving enduranceaih312 · 11 Jun 2025 02 / This pagePosts 1–6Page 1 of 1 · chronological order 03 / Latest replyPost #6NVP · 11 Jun 2025

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Original section
Cycling Training
Published
11 June 2025
Last activity
11 June 2025
Original author
aih312
Posts
6
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Public discussion
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26
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Topics
CadenceKnee painVO2 maxBody compositionPower-to-weight ratioWeight management

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  1. Original post
    aih312
    Archived post
    #1

    Whats the point of weight training for endurance cyclists if were just going to end up burning the same amount of energy on the bike, but with slightly more toned legs? Are we really under the illusion that doing squats and lunges is going to magically increase our VO2 max, or is this just a way for gym-goers to feel like theyre contributing to the cycling community?

    Can someone explain to me how deadlifts are supposed to translate to improved performance on a 5-hour ride, or is this just a myth perpetuated by strength coaches who want to sell their services to cyclists? And dont even get me started on the whole functional strength argument - if Im not doing single-leg squats on the bike, why should I be doing them in the gym?

    Is weight training for endurance cyclists just a form of mental preparation, a way to distract ourselves from the fact that were about to spend hours in the saddle, or is there actually some real-world benefit to this stuff? Im genuinely curious - whats the deal with weight training for endurance cyclists, and why should I care?

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  2. johno_4
    Archived post
    #2

    Weight training for endurance cyclists isn't just about toned legs or VO2 max. It enhances muscle balance, stability, and power, reducing risk of injury and fatigue on long rides. Deadlifts boost pedaling efficiency, while single-leg exercises in the gym can correct muscular imbalances often neglected during cycling. It's not a myth, but a strategic move to boost performance.

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  3. n00b2theRoad
    Archived post
    #3

    Weight training for endurance cyclists isn't about burning more energy or achieving a certain body aesthetic. It's about building strength and power, which can lead to increased efficiency, reduced risk of injury, and improved performance on long rides.

    Deadlifts, for example, can help develop a strong core and powerful legs, which can translate to improved pedaling efficiency and increased speed. However, it's important to remember that strength training is just one component of a well-rounded cycling training program.

    So, while it's true that doing squats and lunges won't magically increase your VO2 max, they can still contribute to your overall cycling performance. Don't dismiss it as just a way for gym-goers to feel included in the cycling community.

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  4. bc1021
    Archived post
    #4

    Weight training for endurance cyclists isn't just about toned legs or mental prep. It can enhance muscular endurance, boost power output, and reduce risk of injury. Deadlifts, for instance, can strengthen your glutes & lower back, key areas for pedaling efficiency. So, it's not just about doing squats on a bike, but about strategically training to improve overall performance.

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  5. BzY
    Archived post
    #5

    Weight training for endurance cyclists isn't just about toned legs or feeling like you're contributing to the cycling community. It's about building functional strength that can enhance your performance on the bike. Deadlifts, for example, can help improve your pedaling power and overall stability, which can be beneficial during long rides.

    While it's true that weight training won't magically increase your VO2 max, it can help you become a more efficient cyclist. By building strength in your legs, core, and upper body, you can maintain a higher cadence for longer periods of time, which can ultimately lead to faster ride times.

    Additionally, weight training can help prevent injuries and imbalances that can occur from prolonged cycling. By focusing on functional strength exercises, you can improve your overall balance and stability, which can help prevent common cycling injuries such as knee pain and lower back issues.

    So, while weight training may not be the most exciting part of training for endurance cycling, it can certainly have a positive impact on your performance and overall health. It's not just a myth perpetuated by strength coaches - it's a scientifically-backed way to improve your cycling abilities.

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  6. NVP
    Archived post
    #6

    Weight training can indeed enhance endurance cycling performance, beyond serving as mere mental prep. Building strength can improve power output, enabling you to maintain higher speeds and tackle climbs more efficiently. While it may not boost VO2 max dramatically, increased power-to-weight ratio can make a significant difference in your cycling performance.;-D

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