Whats the most effective way to incorporate strength training into a cycling routine to specifically target sprint performance, and are there any exercises or workouts that are complete wastes of time for cyclists looking to improve their explosive power?
Is it really necessary to spend hours in the gym doing squats and deadlifts, or are there more targeted exercises like step-ups, lunges, and leg press that can provide similar benefits with less time commitment? And what about plyometric exercises like box jumps and depth jumps - do they have any real-world application for cyclists, or are they just a bunch of flashy movements that dont translate to actual speed on the bike?
Can someone please explain the science behind how strength training affects sprint performance, and what specific physiological adaptations are being targeted through different exercises and workouts? And are there any specific strength training protocols or periodization strategies that have been proven to be effective for improving cycling sprint performance?
It seems like every coach and trainer has a different opinion on how to incorporate strength training into a cycling routine, and its hard to know what advice to take seriously and what to ignore. So, whats the real deal - what works, what doesnt, and why?