Determinants of cycling performance include energy system contribution, the body mass of the riders, the fibre composition of leg muscle and the cross-section-area of leg muscle amongst riders (1,2,3,4,5). For cyclists, when resistance training is used in conjunction with their cycle training, it has been shown to improve aerobic ability, anaerobic ability, strength, power, muscle activation, musculoskeletal balance, quadriceps size, on-bike stability and positively shifting muscle fibre type (6,7,8,9,10,11,12). These positive changes can occur without an increase in overall bodyweight (8,9,10). For cyclists new to resistance training, it is recommended they are taken through the following, 1) Deep abdominal and gluteal activation drills; 2) Pelvic, spinal and scapular awareness drills; 3) Fundamental cycling movements patterns, such as squats, lunges and deadlifts; 4) stretching and myofascial rolling techniques; 5) Weightlifting preparation exercises, such as snatch balance; and 6) Introductory jumping and throwing exercises. As part of early delivery, it is also recommended that cyclists are introduced to testing and monitoring procedures. Finally, as part of the cyclists overall learning and experience, it is recommended introducing them to fatiguing muscle endurance work; travel-based training technique`s; and cross-training work. Applying the above recommendations will help develop fundamental exercise competency; awareness of own exercise execution; good training habits and overall resistance training knowledge. The aim of applying these recommendations is improved resistance training outcomes and therefore improved cycle performance.
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