Blog: The Coaching Chronicles
While most of the data indicate that the use of compression garments does not provide an advantage, there are a handful that do show possible benefits. It is important, however, to tease out the possible causes and evaluate the efficacy of the items. For instance, Bringard, Perrey and Reaburn (2006) found that running economy may…
Previously, we discussed the mechanism by which compression garments aid people from a healthcare perspective as well as how their mechanism of action may not work in athletes. However, as often seen in science and medicine, tools can be employed in ways not originally intended with great benefit. This is often due to some other…
Working in the complimentary fields of medicine and exercise physiology can provide insight in to new ideas and products. It can also aid in teasing out how the theories behind various practices are developed. An example of this is the use of compression garments to aid recovery and increase performance. While increased recovery or enhance…
Cyclo-cross is one of the most unique cycling disciplines there are. It could be muddy, snowy, sandy, hilly, rocky, and potentially all within the same race. Also common is the need to traverse parts of the course on foot, bike in hand. The overall look, feel, and ambiance of a cross race seem to leave…
While sitting on the couch between races at Gateway Cup, the Think Finance p/b Trek Stores Cycling Team and two Source Endurance coaches jumped into a discussion on aero road helmets. The weather for this particular race weekend in Saint Louis was an average of around 100F at each of the races. The major question…
The search for performance enhancement leads some athletes to turn some pretty dark corners. It’s a shame, and not just because doping is dangerous, unethical, and frequently illegal. It’s also a shame because athletes at all levels of play have access to a powerful tool to improve their performance, one that won’t break any laws…
What length is your road crank? If you are less than 5 feet tall you are likely running 165mm cranks. If your height is 5’5” – 6 feet you are likely spinning 172.5mm cranks. Over 6 feet and the length “standards start to vary.” 175mm? 180? Custom length specially made? What actually makes these the…
Many things go into a pedal stroke. Consider that the daily commuter just pushes down on his flat pedals, making one dimension of force. As this commuter pedals harder to make the red light, his RPMs increase and he starts to bounce on the saddle and inefficiently gain speed to make the light. On the…
One interesting aspect of studying exercise physiology is the ability to incorporate a multi-discipline approach to developing new ideas. The major underlying theme is the body being placed under a form of stress and monitoring the response. The crossover between exercise science and medical research is well founded as it’s not uncommon to see researchers…
Denial– I’m fit. I’m just having a bad day. Anger– I’m so mad I let myself get so unfit. I’m getting fit now! These guys are a-holes for showing me I’m unfit. Bargaining– If I get through this, I’m going to start training 30 hours a week so I’m never unfit again. Depression– I’m so…
