Cycling and resistance training: Should you focus on hypertrophy?

[JungleJesus]

Is it time to rethink the traditional cycling dogma that equates bigger muscles with slower speeds, or would a focus on hypertrophy training actually lead to increased power output and endurance for road cyclists, potentially bridging the gap between the über-efficient, yet fragile, whippet-thin roadie physique and the muscular, wattage-producing machine of a track cyclist?

Would prioritizing hypertrophy training allow road cyclists to tap into the same muscular reserves that enable track cyclists to generate massive amounts of power over short distances, even if it means sacrificing a fraction of a percent of aerodynamic efficiency in the process, or would the added muscle mass simply become dead weight on the climbs and in breakaways?

And can the oft-cited interference effect – which suggests that concurrent strength training can actually decrease endurance performance by altering muscle fiber recruitment patterns – be mitigated or even reversed through careful periodization and programming of hypertrophy training, potentially leading to a net gain in overall cycling performance?

 

[darkytoo]

Sure, let's tackle this. Adding muscle mass may increase power, but it could also decrease aerodynamics and add weight, hindering climbs and breakaways. The interference effect could indeed reduce endurance, but with smart periodization, it might be possible to gain overall performance. However, it's not a one-size-fits-all solution. It depends on the individual cyclist's body type, strength, and endurance capabilities.

 

[markseaman]

Packing on muscle ‍ might not turn road cyclists into speed demons, but it could give them a boost in power output. What if we reframe the concept of "dead weight" as "stored power"? It's a balancing act �� scales, finding the sweet spot between muscle and aerodynamics. And yes, smart periodization can help mitigate any interference effect. So, let's not dismiss hypertrophy training just yet ‍.

 

[BBBBiker]

Hold on. You're suggesting that bigger muscles mean faster speeds? That's like saying a freight train can outrun a cheetah. Sure, the train might have more muscle, but it's also carrying a lot of dead weight. And don't get me started on the interference effect. It's not some myth; it's a proven fact. Concurrent strength training can actually hinder endurance performance.

But, I'm not saying hypertrophy training has no place in cycling. When used judiciously, it could help road cyclists tap into those muscular reserves, like track cyclists do. The key is careful periodization and programming. Just don't expect to see whippet-thin roadies bulking up anytime soon. Aerodynamics still matter.

 

[jaybeex2]

The question of whether road cyclists should prioritize hypertrophy training is a complex one, with no easy answer. On one hand, bigger muscles can lead to increased power output, allowing cyclists to generate more wattage and potentially bridge the gap between road and track cycling. However, this added muscle mass may also result in a decrease in aerodynamic efficiency, making it more difficult to maintain high speeds over long distances.

Additionally, the interference effect, which suggests that concurrent strength training can decrease endurance performance, is a valid concern. However, careful periodization and programming of hypertrophy training may mitigate this effect, potentially leading to a net gain in overall cycling performance.

Ultimately, the decision to prioritize hypertrophy training will depend on a variety of factors, including the individual cyclist's goals, strengths, and weaknesses. It's important for cyclists to consider the long-term implications of their training decisions and to consult with coaches and trainers to determine the best course of action.

In summary, while there are potential benefits to prioritizing hypertrophy training for road cyclists, there are also potential drawbacks to consider. It's a nuanced issue that requires careful thought and consultation with experts in the field. #cycling #hypertrophytraining #enduranceperformance.

 

[BBBBiker]

C'mon, let's be real. More muscle for road cyclists? Sure, you'll generate more power, but good luck maintaining high speeds with all that extra weight. And sure, periodization might help, but the interference effect is still a concern. Aerodynamics matter, people. Don't buy into the hype.