If you are a cyclist then the most crucial thing for you will be to make your legs stronger so they can support you on long rides. Cycling might seem an easy task at first glance but as you get into it you will realize that it requires a lot of effort. We can assume that you might be wondering how can I get my legs stronger for cycling.
Don’t worry, we are here to help you clear your thoughts regarding this tense situation. All you have to do is stay focus while going through this guide and follow all the procedures as they are mentioned for the best outcome.
Strong legs for cycling
The best way to get your legs stronger for cycling is to consider some of the best and most effective exercises for your calves, knees, and legs muscles. Here are a bunch of exercises that you can try to make your legs stronger for cycling.
Lunges
Lunges is one of the best exercises to make your legs stronger as it puts pressure on your calves and knees to enhance their shape and endurance. Lunges will also prove to be a great option for you as a cyclist since the efficient movement of the leg is necessary for cycling to pedal fast. For lunges, you will have to stand straight and then bend forward while keeping one foot and the opposite knee on the ground and at 90 degrees with weight in your hands. Repeat the process with your other leg and knee. It is called 1 rep and you will have to do at least 15 to 20 reps.
Calves raise
Calves raise is a special exercise for cyclists as their lower legs must be strong enough to push pedals fast. You can practice calves raise exercise anywhere without any equipment. The steps of the calves raise exercise are to stand straight on your feet with a little gap between them. You have to raise yourself by lifting your heels and standing on your toes. Now lower your heels down back to the ground slowly. Repeat this process 20 times every day as it is a very efficient exercise.
Squat jumps
The next we got for you in this process of making your legs strong is the squat jumps or box jumps. For this exercise, you will need a durable and reliable box. The exercise puts pressure on your calves, knees, feet, and hamstrings as well as it makes your back strong so you can pedal cycle by keeping your posture right.
Place the box on a flat surface and stand a little distant from it. Now bend your knees in a squat position and try to jump over the box as high as possible while keeping your posture and arms straight for balance. Step back in your original position and do 20 squat jumps regularly for a reliable experience.
Kettlebell swing
Kettlebell swing will prove to be good practice for you a cyclist as it does not only make your legs strong but also enhances your posture for a comfortable and convenient ride. In kettlebell swing, you will have to hold a weight in both your hands steadily. Keep your feet wide apart and straighten your shoulders and back. Now, swing the weight between your legs by moving your hands backward and then forward up to the shoulders. Make sure to keep your arms straight. Swing the weight at least 15 to 20 times.
Split jump
If you are an exercise that can make your legs stronger in a shorter time then split jump is the ultimate option for you because it helps you enhance the power in your leg by putting pressure on feet, knees, and calves. The split jump is somewhat similar to lunges with an added twist of a small jump.
The steps of the split jump exercise include standing straight first with a straight body posture. Move your one leg forward like taking a big step. Do a little jump and bend your knees in the form of lunges swiftly touching the ground without hurting your knee. Now, repeat the last step but move your other leg forward to switch the legs and do a lunge. Repeat the process about 20 times.
Leg press
The last exercise we brought for you is the leg press that is considered one of the most popular and effective exercises for the legs. The leg press is an efficient way to put pressure on your hamstrings, calves, and knees to make them stronger and enhance endurance for cycling. The exercise is very easy to understand but you might feel a little tense if you are starting to work new on this.
For the exercise, you will require the leg press machine which is available in every gym. To perform this exercise, you just have to sit on the machine with balance feet in front of the hips. Now, move the seat back and forth by pushing your feet against the machine. You have to do 20 leg press reps.
Conclusion
Exercise is the best way of all to enhance your legs and make them stronger but exercising regularly is not the only demand here that you must fulfill. You also need to change your diet to a healthy one so you can get the necessary proteins, carbs, fats, and energy for cycling and exercise. We recommend you follow these guidelines and instructions for some days to notice a considerable difference in your legs.
For a comfortable experience, the best practice is to wear yoga pants, shorts, and other exercising apparel as they do not limit your freedom of movement, as well as the breathable mesh, comes along with a quick-dry feature so you do not have to deal with sweating while doing exercise. The lightweight apparel can give you a comfortable and convenient experience. Exercising apparel come with many other benefits for a great experience.