Is Spinning Gears Really Faster? with GCN
Source: GCN Youtube Channel: Is Spinning Gears Really Faster?
Video Is Spinning Gears Really Faster? with Global Cycling Network
Video Is Spinning Gears Really Faster? with Global Cycling Network YouTube Channel.
Is Spinning Gears Really Faster?
The Global Cycling Network (GCN) is a hub for cycling enthusiasts, offering insights, tips, and experiments to help riders enhance their performance on the bike. In a recent video, GCN explored the age-old debate of whether it’s better to spin your legs fast or grind them out slowly while riding. The focus was on endurance and fatigue resistance, crucial aspects of cycling that can make a significant difference in performance, especially during long rides or races.
Heading 1: Endurance and Fatigue Resistance in Cycling
Endurance is a key factor for any cyclist, whether they are a beginner or a professional rider. Being able to maintain a high level of performance over an extended period of time can be the difference between a successful ride and a struggle. Fatigue resistance, the ability to continue riding at a high intensity even after hours in the saddle, is a measure of how well a cyclist can maintain their power output throughout a ride.
Heading 2: High Cadence vs. Low Cadence
One of the key elements that can affect fatigue resistance is the rider’s cadence, or the rate at which they turn the pedals. The debate between high cadence and low cadence has been ongoing in the cycling community, with proponents of each arguing for the benefits of their preferred style. High cadence (spinning the legs fast) is believed to reduce muscle stress and minimize fatigue, while low cadence (grinding out the pedals slowly) is thought to tire the rider more quickly.
Heading 3: The Experiment
To test the impact of cadence on fatigue resistance, a GCN presenter conducted an experiment. They performed a Max 5-minute test at high intensity, followed by an hour of riding at 90% of their FTP (Functional Threshold Power) at a low cadence of 60 RPM. Afterward, they repeated the 5-minute test to measure the drop-off in power. In a subsequent ride, the presenter rode at a high cadence of 90 RPM before the second 5-minute test to compare the results.
Heading 4: Results and Analysis
The results of the experiment showed a significant difference in fatigue resistance between the low cadence and high cadence rides. When the presenter rode at a low cadence, they experienced a 14% drop-off in power during the second 5-minute test. In contrast, riding at a high cadence resulted in only a 9% drop-off, indicating a higher level of fatigue resistance. This suggests that cadence plays a crucial role in a rider’s ability to maintain power output over a prolonged period.
Heading 5: Practical Tips for Improving Fatigue Resistance
Based on the findings of the experiment, there are several practical tips that cyclists can implement to improve their fatigue resistance and endurance. Completing longer rides, pacing efforts, and fueling adequately are essential strategies to enhance performance and delay fatigue. Additionally, practicing both high cadence and low cadence riding can help riders develop the flexibility to switch between the two styles as needed during a ride.
Heading 6: Conclusion
In conclusion, the debate between high cadence and low cadence in cycling is complex, with both styles offering unique benefits and challenges. While high cadence may improve fatigue resistance and overall endurance, low cadence can also have its advantages in certain situations. Ultimately, finding a balance between the two and being able to adapt to different riding conditions is key to maximizing performance on the bike. By incorporating a variety of cadence ranges into training and being mindful of technique, cyclists can optimize their riding experience and achieve their goals.
The opinions expressed in this space are the sole responsibility of the YouTube Channel Global Cycling Network and do not necessarily represent the views of Bicycles4ever Cycling Culture.
