5 Exercises to Improve Cycling Power

Improving your ability to produce a more powerful pedal stroke does not come from doing exercises like leg extensions and leg curls. A powerful downstroke comes from using your hips. Exercises like the barbell hip thrust and deadlift stiff leg will effectively train your legs to drive from the hips and not your knees, which will boost your power on the bike and ensure you aren’t completely burnt out before making it to the run. These five exercise will focus on all the main muscles groups that cycling demands.

To improve your pedal stroke you will always want to use multi-joint exercises that engage multiple muscle groups. If you are new to these exercises, focus on mastering a couple of these exercises before you start expanding your training routine.

About the Author

Erik Taylor

Erik Taylor is the premiere NASM-certified trainer for runners, cyclist, triathletes and fitness enthusiasts in the South Bay area of Los Angeles. A CrossFit Level 1 instructor, corrective exercise expert and performance enhancement specialist, Erik focuses on functional training. A former competitive cross country and track athlete, Erik understands the commitment involved in being an endurance athlete. Find him at Taylor's Fitness, on Facebook, and follow him on Twitter @Eriktaylorsfit.
Erik Taylor is the premiere NASM-certified trainer for runners, cyclist, triathletes and fitness enthusiasts in the South Bay area of Los Angeles. A CrossFit Level 1 instructor, corrective exercise expert and performance enhancement specialist, Erik focuses on functional training. A former competitive cross country and track athlete, Erik understands the commitment involved in being an endurance athlete. Find him at Taylor's Fitness, on Facebook, and follow him on Twitter @Eriktaylorsfit.

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