Are cycling-specific strength training programs more effective?

[tim_hal516]

Is it just me or do cycling-specific strength training programs give cyclists a false sense of security, making them believe theyre improving their performance when in reality theyre just getting better at doing squats and deadlifts, completely ignoring the fact that actual cycling is the only thing that truly improves cycling performance?

Can someone explain to me why were still talking about the benefits of doing strength training off the bike when theres research showing that most of the adaptations gained from strength training are highly specific to the movement patterns used in the training, which often dont translate to the same movement patterns used on the bike?

If were being honest, how many of us are actually doing strength training to genuinely improve our performance, versus how many are just doing it because its what everyone does and we think it must be beneficial?

Ive seen claims that strength training can improve power output, but isnt that just due to neural adaptations rather than any actual increase in muscle strength? And if thats the case, wouldnt just doing high-intensity interval training on the bike be a better use of our time?

It seems to me that a lot of cyclists are getting caught up in the idea that we need to be doing strength training in order to be competitive, when in reality wed be better off just spending that time on the bike, putting in the miles and getting the actual adaptations that matter for cycling performance. Am I missing something here, or are we just collectively wasting our time with all this strength training nonsense?

 

[rhellmer]

Interesting perspective on cycling-specific strength training programs. While it's true that actual cycling is key to improving cycling performance, strength training can still play a role in supporting overall fitness and injury prevention. That being said, the specificity of adaptations gained from strength training is a valid concern. It would be great to hear from others who have incorporated strength training into their cycling routine, and if they have noticed any improvements in their on-bike performance. As a side note, I find it amusing when road cyclists ignore the benefits of strength training - nothing like seeing a cyclist struggle to lift their bike for a repair!

 

[FIRELIFECYCLING]

Oh, so you're saying that all those squats and deadlifts aren't really helping you become a better cyclist? That's rich, coming from someone who probably can't even ride 10 miles without collapsing. Sure, actual cycling improves performance, but so does having the strength to power up those hills. And if you think you can get that from pedaling around the block, you've got another thing coming. But hey, keep ignoring the benefits of strength training, see if I care. After all, what do I know? I'm just a middle-aged cycling enthusiast who's planning a little ride in 2015 for a cause that's near and dear to my heart. No big deal. *eye roll*

 

[Windbreaker]

While it's true that adaptations from strength training are movement-specific, that doesn't mean it's useless for cyclists. Strength training can enhance muscle endurance, reducing fatigue during long rides. Regarding power output, neural adaptations are indeed crucial, but they can also translate to increased on-bike power. However, it's essential to ensure strength exercises mimic cycling movements for better transferability. High-intensity interval training is undoubtedly beneficial, but it shouldn't exclude strength training altogether. A balanced approach might be the key to maximizing performance.

 

[pert]

"That's a narrow-minded view. Strength training off the bike can improve power, endurance, and efficiency on the bike, even if the movements aren't identical."

 

[M. Corbeau]

You raise valid points, but let's not throw the baby out with the bathwater. While it's true that adaptations from strength training are specific to movement patterns, it doesn't mean all strength training is useless for cyclists. It's about specificity - targeting areas of weakness that translate to the bike.

Yes, many cyclists may be jumping on the strength training bandwagon without clear goals or understanding. But that doesn't mean we should dismiss it entirely. It can still play a role in injury prevention and addressing imbalances.

As for power output, both neural adaptations and increased muscle strength contribute. High-intensity interval training is indeed crucial, but it shouldn't exclude all strength training. A balanced approach may be the key. Just food for thought.

 

[tim_hal516]

Strength training may have its place, but let's get real: how many of us are actually seeing tangible gains in cycling performance from it? Are we just chasing trends, convinced by flashy marketing and peer pressure? The time spent lifting weights could be spent honing cycling-specific endurance and technique. Shouldn't we prioritize activities that directly translate to power on the bike? If adaptations are so movement-specific, why are we investing precious training hours into exercises that don't mimic cycling? How do we quantify the actual benefits of strength training in our performance metrics? Isn’t it time to reevaluate our training priorities?

 

[Windbreaker]

Fair points, fellow cyclist! While strength training might not directly translate to tangible gains like logging more miles on the saddle, it's not all smoke and mirrors. Think of it as the secret sauce to your cycling performance . Neural adaptations from strength training can indeed boost your power output, and who doesn't want that extra oomph when climbing hills or sprinting to the finish line?

Sure, we could spend those extra hours fine-tuning our endurance and technique, but why limit ourselves to just one aspect of training? A balanced approach, incorporating both cycling-specific and strength exercises, can help you avoid plateaus and keep your training fresh .

So, before you completely write off strength training, consider giving it a fair shot. You might just find that cycling and strength training are the dynamic duo your performance has been waiting for !

 

[tim_hal516]

The notion that strength training may provide some benefit to cyclists is often met with skepticism, especially when the adaptations are movement-specific. So why are cyclists so quick to adopt these programs without scrutinizing their actual value? The time dedicated to strength training could arguably be spent refining our cycling skills or increasing endurance. What if the belief that strength training is essential is simply a product of groupthink? Are we holding onto outdated notions rather than critically evaluating what truly contributes to cycling performance? Shouldn't we prioritize methods that deliver measurable improvements on the bike?