Have you ever wondered what a professional cyclist does to compete at the highest level against the best in the world? Or have you wondered what things you should be considering when you prepare for your big events?

These days it seems like everyone is talking about the core as the keys to a power pedal stroke. One often overlooked but critical component though is hip mobility and the importance of the hip adductors.

While it is true that fitness is fitness, the best path to success in racing is to match your training and fitness to the requirements of the event. Let’s take a look at some of the gravel races I’ve done to see what’s specific about gravel competitions.

My scientific career has revolved around understanding the impact of thermal stress on human physiology and performance. So, it was truly ironic that I got a solid dose of heat exhaustion while cycling in late June. What are the risk factors for developing heat exhaustion or, even worse, heat stroke in cyclists?

TOOLBOX: Static Stretching doesn’t resolve muscle tightness, and neither does strength training alone. Soft Tissue work is the missing linchpin, but you don’t need your own personal soigneur, using a foam roller can have significant benefits for warm-up, flexibility, recovery and better overall cycling performance.

Depending on location, your life will be in various shades of normal due to COVID. If your situation involves no major races or events to focus on, what are ways or ideas for challenging yourself this summer?

As we get into the meat of riding season many riders are beginning to focus on “core exercises” and “maintaining strength”. Let’s take it from the general to the specific with a focus on the classic “Bird Dog” exercise. 

Recently we wrote about switching up strength training now that cycling season is in full swing and exercise restrictions are easing. I thought it would be a fine time to lay out one of my favourite on-bike strength and agility workouts.

A popular trend in recovery has been the use of cold water immersion or ice baths. They may improve your sensations of soreness and short-term recovery after hard training, but are they the best thing for long-term training adaptation?