Bruce Lee was the master of efficiency
Are you in an efficient position on your bike?
He was famous for his “one inch punch” in which his fist would only move one inch and knock his opponent across the room. This was not some magic trick it was mastery of efficiency. All of his effort that he produced from his tiny body was focused and then consumed through his fist. Think of this movement compared to a swinging punch. Which one do you think is more efficient?
What does efficiency mean to cyclists?
For cyclists efficiency is making the bike go down the road with the least possible effort.
Much of this efficiency comes from training and practice but is also comes from bicycle fit and positioning.
Bicycle fit improves your efficiency
A professional bicycle fit helps improve your efficiency by adjusting your bike so that you are comfortable and bio mechanically efficient. This means things like the cleat position, saddle height, shoe fit, etc., are adjusted to a position that produces the most power while maintaining comfort.
Power is important
Power is the amount of energy your body produces. Efficiency determines how that power is consumed. It can be consumed by excessive movement or used very effectively with little loss due to movement.
Training harder with poor position is a waste of time
You can work on training your body to become more efficient through drills and experience. If for example your saddle is too high you will not see the improvements you would see if you first had a professional bicycle fit and then worked on the drills. You will certainly see improvements but you are improving at a position that is bio-mechanically inefficient.
Don’t waste your effort with a poor position
A professional bicycle fit is the first step in becoming more efficient. Greater efficiency means that you use your power more effectively and in have a better overall cycling experience. Think of Kung Fu master Bruce Lee with his one inch punch. (encase you are wondering here is a link) the next time you go out for a ride and ask yourself if you are in an efficient position and using as little energy as possible to ride your bike.
Do you feel efficient on your bike? Leave a comment or ask a question.
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I have been cyclists for a few years now, but thought this points especially with the “poor position is a waste of time”. I need to take into consideration the height of my set, so I don’t put too much of pressure on my lower back. Thanks so much!!