Science of Cycling - (DK Science of) by David Bailey (Paperback)

Book Synopsis

What causes an energy "bonk"? How do you avoid "cracking" on a climb? What's the best way to improve mitochondrial performance? Should you ride harder into a headwind or with a tailwind at your back - and why should crosswinds be tackled diagonally? Can rougher fabrics sometimes be more aerodynamic? Is the peloton a superorganism and should we be afraid?!

Cycling melds the human body to an engineering marvel and pits them collectively against geography, gravity, and the elements. Little wonder, then, that the cycling experience - and your cycling form - is enriched and transformed by scientific understanding, to a greater extent than perhaps any other sport.

More easy to digest and stimulating than an energy gel, and more visually stunning than a ride in the Alps, Science of Cycling takes the varied and remarkable science of the bicycle, the cyclist, and the bike race, and makes it accessible to everyone.

While knowledge is power, what you really want to know is how precisely it can boost your watts-to-kilogram ratio on the road. Which is why Science of Cycling translates all this know-how into practical steps to boost your cycling form, allowing you to create a full-spectrum training program of varied session rides, targeted strength exercises, bike handling practice, and efficient fueling regimes to help you get fitter, leaner, faster - and freer to roam.

Wherever you want to take your love of two wheels - whether you just need to get out and get fit, start moving up the (virtual) bunch, or aim to climb the podium - Science of Cycling will get you there faster.

About the Author

Dr David Bailey has more than 20 years' experience in cycling as a coach, sports scientist, and performance manager. He is currently the Head of Performance Support at the Israel Premier-Tech professional cycling team, and has previously worked as a sports physiologist with the English Institute of Sport through three Olympics (Athens, Beijing, and London), supporting athletes competing in cycling and triathlon. With a PhD in Exercise and Sport Nutrition from Loughborough University, and research background in physiology, nutrition, and training, David has applied his expertise to support cyclists achieve success at the highest level in the sport.