Improving Pedalling Efficiency

DMW22

Hi All

I'm trying to find out as much as I can on improving my pedalling technique. I tried pedalling with one leg around the yard and found that my right leg isn't to bad but my left is brutal.

I'm finding it difficult to engage all my muscles that I need to complete a rotation.

I'm just wondering have any of you got any exercises both on and off the bike that could help me out?

f1000

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=FjdSJ-YrCcM

12 sprocket

DMW22 wrote: »

Hi All

I'm trying to find out as much as I can on improving my pedalling technique. I tried pedalling with one leg around the yard and found that my right leg isn't to bad but my left is brutal.

I'm finding it difficult to engage all my muscles that I need to complete a rotation.

I'm just wondering have any of you got any exercises both on and off the bike that could help me out?

just cycle your bike more using gears and cadence that feels natural and sustainable and include some shorter sections where you use slightly higher and lower cadence than what feels most comfortable.. forget about all the gimmicks, one legged cycling, pulling up on the pedals and so on.. they don't work!!

Just a little Samba

This might be worth reading OP.

Strength training improves performance and pedaling characteristics in elite cyclists.
.

Brian?

Just a little Samba wrote: »

This might be worth reading OP.

Strength training improves performance and pedaling characteristics in elite cyclists.
.

The cyclists in the study were already elite. The strength training was fine tuning for them. The OP is not elite, he needs to work on his pedalling style.

2 Wheels Good

If you're near a gym that has a Watt bike it might help to do a few sessions on it. It's a great tool to help improve pedal stroke.

triggermortis

Given the time of year and weather, rollers might be a help. I got a set last year and found my pedalling got smoother after using the rollers

eeeee

Do track! Or ride a fixie (new bike!), you have to pedal 'round', it will definitely help your pedaling style.

DMW22

I've been thinking about getting a set of rollers or a turbo so looks like I'll have to bite the bullet and invest.

I'll keep trying to practice at slow speeds until I can get either

eeeee

Rollers are much better for pedaling smoothness. You have to be smooth on them.

CramCycle

Get advice on cleat positioning (or get a bike fit for it). Follow this by spinning away while slightly under geared.

Lusk_Doyle

Ten answers and almost as many differing ideas. Yet, not one of the answers has suggested a coach!

Good pedal technique really helps with the efficiency of cycling so it's very important. I'd be interested to hear which of the above works for you.