Swim Bike Run

Bicycling is something which has been growing in popularity lately. Many people have been taking to the sport purely for race biking. This has been fueled by a higher interest in such televised races as the Tour de France. Many people have found an interest in how the sport has changed over the years. This includes the science behind the bicycles, the clothing which is worn and the fuel which is used to power the cyclists.

The First Races

It was not a long time after the invention of the bicycle that race biking was invented. This seems to be a natural progression seen most anywhere. These first races were competitions between cyclists to see who could cover a preset course spanning from one city to another. They started in the mid to late 1800’s. These are the races which have grown into such races as the Tour de France as well as races in Italy and Germany. The races which have gained recognition include ones which are on American soil as well. Every country has been responsible for creating some of the best cyclists the world has ever seen.

The Science of the Bicycle

The first bicycles used for race biking were nothing more than conversions of the standard bicycle. They used steel frames and thick rubber wheels. Everything about the bike was heavy right down to the chains which were used. Nothing about the bicycle was comfortable at this point and there were not as many gears being used for such things as climbs. Over the years, lighter and more durable metals have been found to build bikes from. There has also been a switch in the effectiveness of the brakes and the contours of the frame itself.

Even the handlebars have undergone a complete revolution. The original handlebars used for race biking were little different from the regular handlebars. The shape eventually included an extension which rolled under. This allowed the cyclist to grab lower and create a more aerodynamic shape. The handlebars which are used today even include a brace which can be used for resting the forearm and elbows while racing. This allows you to have good aerodynamics while taking pressure off of the back muscles. The rider uses skeletal support to ride the bike and be in greater comfort for a longer period of time.

Better Fuel for Greater Performance

Outside of the bike itself, the fuel which is involved in race biking has undergone many changes. It used to be the only thing racers would bring along with them was good old water. These days there are formulas which will replace enzymes lost during the race. You can even stow away packs which will give you carbs and food replacement for long term races. The one thing which has not changed here is the use of water to hydrate. Water has still been found to be the best way to keep your body going even after you have been racing for hours on end.

Photo Credits: mikebaird

Originally posted 2010-03-28 10:59:48. Republished by Blog Post Promoter

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There are more people running than ever before. This is because they want to stay in shape and running seems to be a great way to accomplish this goal. The problem is many people never take the time and learn to run. This can cause you to become injured and get turned off from running. Simply getting to know some basic advice will help you to stay free from injury and will help you to increase your fitness level. Even people who have been running for a long time can benefit from this information.

Watch Your Hands

There is a reason why professional runners keep their hands above the middle of their chest. If you run with your hands too low, it will cause a few different problems. It can cause problems with your equilibrium. The most common problem it can cause is problems in your circulation. This is because the hands swinging so low below your heart will cause blood to flow towards the tips of your fingers and pool there. The force at which you are pumping your arms is more than what your system is used to and can cause you to feel light headed while you are running.

Stretching is Key

One thing you should know while learning to run is the importance of stretching. This is because running can cause a lot of strain on your muscles. The right stretching will prepare your muscles for what is ahead. There are a few stretches which are very effective in keeping you free from injury. These stretches focus on the hamstrings, the quads and the calves. The best advice for stretching is to make sure to warm up the legs first. This can be accomplished by a short brisk walk, short jog or even jumping jacks.

The first stretch you will become familiar with as you learn to run is the toe reach. Bend over from the waste without bending your knees and reach towards your toes. Hold this position for about 15 second without bobbing. You should also stretch your quad by standing on one foot and pulling your other foot towards your back. Hold this for about 15 seconds. Last, you should prop your leg on an elevated plane and reach towards the toe. Reach as far as you can and hold this for 15 seconds. Do these stretches on both legs at least once.

Pay Attention to Your Pace

The worst thing you can do when you learn to run or as you get better is to vary your pace. This is bad because you will throw off your ability to consistently run the same distance. You will notice on some days you will be able to run your route with ease while other days you will be exhausted. This is because you do not have a good pace. You can try creating a cadence in your head by counting rhythmically. Try to avoid wearing headphones until you feel comfortable with the pace you are running at.

Photo Credits: Sonic Fitness

Originally posted 2010-03-15 03:29:20. Republished by Blog Post Promoter

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