Bigger Riders: Do You Need Special Cycling Training?
We regularly talk to riders who describe themselves as “big”.
They’re often tall (over 6ft) with a heavier-than-average build.
These riders are always so preoccupied by their size, often asking if we have any “special” training methods for bigger riders…
And of course, the answer is no.
The most important physiological training principles apply whether you’re 130 or 240 pounds.
But here’s what does matter.
If you are a bigger, more powerfully built rider, YOU MUST LEAN INTO THIS, NOT FIGHT IT.
Why do bigger riders try to be smaller?
The mistake so many bigger riders make is trying to be smaller.
They think, “I can’t be a great cyclist at this size.”
Often this is subconsciously driven by the constant bombardment of online content around body fat %, watts p/kg and the idea that great cyclists all look the same.
So, they try to change their natural physiology to fit the mould.
Can a heavier cyclist be a good climber?
However, the first thing these riders need to do is get realistic...
If you’re 6ft5 and 240 pounds, you’re never going to be a phenomenal climber.
But, you absolutely CAN BE a phenomenally powerful Puncheur, the type who rides little climbers off their wheel on the flat, after hours of relentless racing.
The kind who sits on the front in a savage crosswind, puts the hammer down, and blows the group to pieces, while the climbers are left flapping in the wind, trying to close gaps.
How should bigger riders train?
But, you only reach these meteoric heights when you stop fighting your physiology.
Stop trying to be smaller.
Lean into the fact that you generate power more efficiently at 80rpm and stop thinking you need to spin at 105.
What happens if you fight your physiology?
If you keep fighting your physiology, two things will happen:
You’ll lose the raw power that is your gift.
You still won’t climb with the best: you’ll just be lighter, less resilient and weak as a kitten.
Our bodies hate being forced into something they’re not built to be.
Lean into what God gave you.
You are a beast.
For over a decade, DUCHY has been helping pros, CEOs, lawyers, biz owners, entrepreneurs, finance execs & many more maximise every minute in the saddle with personalised cycling coaching.
Book a free consultation with a DUCHY coach.
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