Gain a core advantage

Share

‘Core strength’ has been a fitness buzzword for a number of decades now – Tammy Curtis clears up the confusion of what it actually means. Do you ever notice some cyclists just make riding look easy? Their pedal stroke is smooth, balanced, almost effortless, they have great acceleration and they barely move their upper body.
Read More…

Ride strong

Share

A regular program of simple strength exercises can improve your posture and strengthen your core. Benjamin Masci shares five exercises to help your body balance. A balanced body helps any rider confidently tackle the physical demands of the bike (and of life in general). Strong legs without a solid core can cause lower-back strain with
Read More…

Pedalling past the pain

Share

When confronted with back pain, the only way forward is to go back to basics, finds Iain Treloar.  For the first hour or two of a ride, all seems well. Then, like a thread unraveling from a jumper, the first ache appears and soon enough I’m undone. The early twinge spreads from the mid-back and
Read More…

Building core strength

Share

Stand tall and supported and ready for action with a solid core. Simon Vincett suggests these exercises. Just as aerobic exercise is important for cardiovascular health and a resistance workout is key for maintaining bone density, core-muscle strengthening is vital to provide a solid foundation in your torso. It’s from this strong base that your
Read More…

Active recovery

Share

After a hard ride you probably feel like complete rest but a bit more low-intensity activity will make you feel better in the long run. Simon Vincett explains. With the peak riding season upon us, you might as well make the most of your efforts. That’s what active recovery offers, with the added benefit of
Read More…

Pilates for bike riders

Share

You’ll find poise and balance on the bike and in life with Pilates finds Debra Mayrhofer. One of the most vital skills for riding with others is the ability to hold your line while you are doing other tasks, such as­­ reaching for a drink bottle, signalling, scanning behind or even just ringing your bell.
Read More…

Strong, lean riding machine

Share

Strength training will help keep you young, healthy and improve your riding. Exercise physiologist Vanessa Lougoon has developed a strength routine suitable for everyone. Are you one of the many riders with super-strong legs but puny arms? Can you ride for hours but are barely able to do one sit up? Many riders have good
Read More…