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Discussion: Pedaling imbalance..anyone else?

Subject: Pedaling imbalance..anyone else?

By: Jose G.

Written on: 2006-06-26 15:16:21

Message: At this weekend's tri, Toyota had their Endurance SportLab (www.toyotaendurance.com). After some analysis on the bike, the numbers were popping up with an imbalance in the force applied by each leg. anywhere from 30/70 to 40/60 for the left/right combination.

Sometime this is due to an injury or just muscle imbalance. I have no injury that would cause this. I kick with my right foot but apparently that isn't a good enough reason. This gives me a few things to work on when training. Anyone else have a similar analysis?


Subject: RE: Pedaling imbalance..anyone else?

By: Geoff F.

Written on: 2006-06-26 15:31:32

Message: I have never had a professional measurement but I am sure I have the same issue. I know I favor the right leg and it's much stronger than my left. Sometimes I practice riding with my right foot loose without being clipped in to work my left leg a little harder. 30/70 seems really high, I would think that you would be able to tell if that was happening by yourself?


Subject: RE: Pedaling imbalance..anyone else?

By: Tim O.

Written on: 2006-06-26 17:54:14

Message: Having a pedaling imbalance is normal and as Geoff alluded to, there are single foot leg drills that will help that. Also, you need to focus more on a full pull stroke pulling through on the bottom part of the stroke. The single foot pedaling drill is a good one to do and you will quickly realize that pedaling with one foot forces you to have to pull on the pedal. I normally practice it in the off season to try and get a smooth pedal stroke developed however as the season progresses you have to get back to basics every now and then. Also, single leg weight training is helpful, but not too much that you would bulk up. Keep the reps between 15 and 20 and no more than 3 sets.


Subject: RE: Pedaling imbalance..anyone else?

By: Jose G.

Written on: 2006-06-26 18:14:59

Message: Thanks Geoff and Tim: Interesting feedback. Now that I recall, I was in runnings shoes with cages while on their test bike. This may play a role into that as well. I tried to pull but only so much you can do with cages.




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