spinning

[rebeccaC]

Cadence is rpm, 'spinning' is using a higher cadence/rpm while in an easier gear compared to 'mashing' which is using a lower cadence in a harder gear. Spinning provides for less resistance to your leg muscles while mashing means using more muscle force. A persons spinning cadence can depend on their fitness and comfort levels. Spinning can make your climbing more efficient and it can be a good cardiovascular workout when you want that for training.

Personally I can vary my cadence for changes in gradient, road conditions, wind, fatigue etc rather than trying to maintain any particular cadence. On a climb if I feel my legs getting a little tired or i feel the need to conserve some energy on a long climb I’ll spin more for a while to reduce the strain on my leg muscles and energy. If my legs feel strong I’ll push a harder gear. I go by what my body is telling me and the rhythm that I feel comfortable with in the moment.


downhills on a fixie is good spinning training < mischievous smile