Functional Stability

Take a look at the rider in front of you. Go on...look. What do you see?

Is the dog wagging the tail or is the tail wagging the dog? Are the shoulders rigid? Are the elbows locked in extension? Does that rider have a functionally stable trunk or "core".

Core training has taken off over the last couple years. Why? Because sit-ups lost their appeal. And the exercise market realized that somehow, you have to integrate abdominal strength into your everyday functional activities.

I say, "functional stability", because your trunk should be able to move an flex. Your not trying to develop a muscular cast for your trunk. You want a muscular corset. You need the ability to move within an acceptable range with strength.

The cyclist is in desperate need for functional stability. We have one stable point of support, the saddle. Everything else moves, pedals and handlebars.

The trunk(including the pelvis) on the saddle, has to become the effective foundation of power for the lower extremities. If you can't keep your trunk stable, what foundation are you using to pedal the bike? Are you using your shoulders, triceps or your neck muscles? No wonder riders have difficulty tolerating long rides. If you spend 4 hours using your shoulder muscles as the foundation of strength for your legs, you will be exhausted.

You can ride better. Work on the things that matter. There's more to riding than getting on the bike everyday.