Using the hamstrings...how long before it's automatic?

cantalach

I've only very recently started trying to use my hamstrings more when cycling. I'm using the "imagine you're scraping mud off the sole of your shoe" visualisation. It is obviously doing something good because I can feel my hamstrings firing quite strongly if I put my hand on them (on the turbo) and they are quite tender and tight the day after. Great!

But I'm wondering how long before this happens automatically. It's OK trying to practice my new trick on the turbo where there are no other distractions but I find it very difficult on the road. Has anyone else done something like this? How long more will my spins be accompanied by obsessive reciting of the "scrape your shoes" mantra?

Raam

When you are out biking on the road, try this drill...

Unclip one foot and pedal using the other for about 20 revolutions. You will very quickly see where the deadspots in your candence lie. Repeat with the other foot. If you can do it up a very gentle slope, even better. While doing the one foot pedaling, try and keep a force on the pedal for the whole revolution.

CheGuedara

If you consciously aim to do it on hills, where it makes a big difference, I've found myself doing it automatically on the flat when needed.

Couldn't guess how long it took though - maybe a few months before it was getting engrained?