Focus On The Bike

By Coach Matt Russ

Triathlon coaches recommend you spend your majority of the time developing your cycling because you spend the most time in a triathlon on the bike; right? This is true, but the power needed to propel a bike at 25 mph versus 20 mph in almost double (without wind). Aerodynamic drag increased exponentially which makes cycling a very challenging sport to progress at. If you are a newbie you may have noticed a plateau in your cycling once you have reached a certain speed.

Make sure you are spending at least 50% of your time developing your cycling abilities. If you are moving beyond the novice stage you may also want to look at your bike fit and position. With some modification you may be able to reduce your aerodynamic drag by 20% at speeds over 20 mph. This can add up to a significant speed increase.

Matt Russ has coached and trained elite athletes from around the country and internationally for over ten years. He currently holds expert licenses from USA Triathlon, USA Cycling (Elite), and is a licensed USA Track and Field Coach. Matt is head coach and owner of The Sport Factory, and works with athletes of all levels full time. He is a free lance author and his articles are regularly featured in a variety of magazines such as Inside Triathlon, and Triathlete. Visit www.thesportfactory.com for more information or email him at coachmatt@thesportfactory.com