“Push down, pull up” is a cue that has been passed around the cycling world like popcorn at the movies. While it’s extremely common advice, it’s actually extremely incorrect advice. Unfortunately, because it is so common, people often automatically assume that it’s good advice. But pulling up on your bicycle pedals hurts you more than it helps you. Coach Laura dives into the reason why this is true and gives advice on what you should do to optimize your pedaling mechanics.
Sources:
Coyle, E. F. et al., “Physiological and biomechanical factors associated with elite endurance cycling performance”
Edwards, Lindsay M. et al., “Whole-body efficiency is negatively correlated with minimum torque per duty cycle in trained cyclists”
Korff, Thomas et al., “Effect of Pedaling Technique on Mechanical Effectiveness and Efficiency in Cyclists”
Bike Fit 2nd Edition: Optimize Your Bike Position for High Performance and Injury Avoidance by Phil Burt
Training and Racing with a Power Meter: Third Edition by Hunter Allen + Andrew Coggan, PhD + Stephen McGregor, PhD
Meet The Host:
Coach Laura Henry
Laura Henry is a Syracuse, NY-based coach who is a USA Triathlon Level II Long Course and Level II Paratriathlon Certified Coach, USA Cycling Level 2 Certified Coach, VFS Certified Bike Fitter, and has successfully completed NASM's Certified Personal Trainer course. Coach Laura is passionate about helping athletes of all ability levels reach their goals and has coached many athletes to success.
She can be reached at laura@fullcircleendurance.com.
