{"id":45685,"date":"2025-03-19T22:17:55","date_gmt":"2025-03-20T05:17:55","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/averagejoecyclist.com\/?p=45685"},"modified":"2025-04-07T19:38:38","modified_gmt":"2025-04-08T02:38:38","slug":"cycling-is-the-ultimate-full-body-workout","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/averagejoecyclist.com\/cycling-is-the-ultimate-full-body-workout\/","title":{"rendered":"Why Cycling Is the Ultimate Full-Body Workout (and How to Get the Most Out of It)"},"content":{"rendered":"<p>In this post, we explain why cycling is the ultimate full-body workout, and show you how to make sure you are reaping the maximum benefits from cycling. If you\u2019ve ever hopped on a bike and felt the wind rush past you as your legs powered you forward, you probably already know that cycling is a great workout. But did you know that it\u2019s not just about your legs?<\/p>\n<p>A lot of people assume cycling is mainly a <strong>leg workout<\/strong>, but in reality, it engages your <strong>core, upper body, and cardiovascular system<\/strong>, making it a full-body exercise with serious benefits. Plus, it\u2019s fun, low-impact, and <a href=\"https:\/\/averagejoecyclist.com\/complete-bike-training-plan-for-cyclists\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">adaptable for all fitness levels<\/a>. Whether you\u2019re riding for fitness, commuting, or just enjoying the outdoors, cycling can be a game-changer for your overall health. Maggie and I have enjoyed it for years, and we know it has been a vital part of keeping us fit and healthy.<\/p>\n<p>In this post, we\u2019ll dive into what makes cycling such a well-rounded workout and how you can maximize its benefits. Our post includes advice on fueling your rides (nutrition for cyclists), as well as a <strong>Beginner\u2019s Cycling Workout Plan<\/strong> to improve endurance and strength.<\/p>\n<figure id=\"attachment_19982\" aria-describedby=\"caption-attachment-19982\" style=\"width: 750px\" class=\"wp-caption aligncenter\"><img decoding=\"async\" data-attachment-id=\"19982\" data-permalink=\"https:\/\/averagejoecyclist.com\/cyclists-guide-to-newcastle-upon-tyne\/newcastle-upon-tyne-cyclist1\/\" data-orig-file=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/averagejoecyclist.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2016\/11\/Newcastle-upon-Tyne-cyclist1.jpg?fit=750%2C535&amp;ssl=1\" data-orig-size=\"750,535\" data-comments-opened=\"1\" data-image-meta=\"{&quot;aperture&quot;:&quot;0&quot;,&quot;credit&quot;:&quot;&quot;,&quot;camera&quot;:&quot;&quot;,&quot;caption&quot;:&quot;&quot;,&quot;created_timestamp&quot;:&quot;0&quot;,&quot;copyright&quot;:&quot;&quot;,&quot;focal_length&quot;:&quot;0&quot;,&quot;iso&quot;:&quot;0&quot;,&quot;shutter_speed&quot;:&quot;0&quot;,&quot;title&quot;:&quot;&quot;,&quot;orientation&quot;:&quot;0&quot;}\" data-image-title=\"newcastle-upon-tyne-cyclist1\" data-image-description=\"\" data-image-caption=\"&lt;p&gt;Try to find some flat terrain when you start your bike training&lt;\/p&gt;\n\" data-medium-file=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/averagejoecyclist.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2016\/11\/Newcastle-upon-Tyne-cyclist1.jpg?fit=300%2C214&amp;ssl=1\" data-large-file=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/averagejoecyclist.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2016\/11\/Newcastle-upon-Tyne-cyclist1.jpg?fit=750%2C535&amp;ssl=1\" class=\"wp-image-19982 size-full lazyload\" src=\"data:image\/gif;base64,R0lGODlhAQABAIAAAAAAAP\/\/\/yH5BAEAAAAALAAAAAABAAEAAAIBRAA7\" data-src=\"https:\/\/averagejoecyclist.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2016\/11\/Newcastle-upon-Tyne-cyclist1.jpg\" alt=\"Cycling can help you to build great legs - but it's not just about the legs! Why Cycling Is the Ultimate Full-Body Workout (and How to Get the Most Out of It)\" width=\"750\" height=\"535\" \/><figcaption id=\"caption-attachment-19982\" class=\"wp-caption-text\"><noscript><img data-recalc-dims=\"1\" decoding=\"async\" data-attachment-id=\"19982\" data-permalink=\"https:\/\/averagejoecyclist.com\/cyclists-guide-to-newcastle-upon-tyne\/newcastle-upon-tyne-cyclist1\/\" data-orig-file=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/averagejoecyclist.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2016\/11\/Newcastle-upon-Tyne-cyclist1.jpg?fit=750%2C535&amp;ssl=1\" data-orig-size=\"750,535\" data-comments-opened=\"1\" data-image-meta=\"{&quot;aperture&quot;:&quot;0&quot;,&quot;credit&quot;:&quot;&quot;,&quot;camera&quot;:&quot;&quot;,&quot;caption&quot;:&quot;&quot;,&quot;created_timestamp&quot;:&quot;0&quot;,&quot;copyright&quot;:&quot;&quot;,&quot;focal_length&quot;:&quot;0&quot;,&quot;iso&quot;:&quot;0&quot;,&quot;shutter_speed&quot;:&quot;0&quot;,&quot;title&quot;:&quot;&quot;,&quot;orientation&quot;:&quot;0&quot;}\" data-image-title=\"newcastle-upon-tyne-cyclist1\" data-image-description=\"\" data-image-caption=\"&lt;p&gt;Try to find some flat terrain when you start your bike training&lt;\/p&gt;\n\" data-medium-file=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/averagejoecyclist.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2016\/11\/Newcastle-upon-Tyne-cyclist1.jpg?fit=300%2C214&amp;ssl=1\" data-large-file=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/averagejoecyclist.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2016\/11\/Newcastle-upon-Tyne-cyclist1.jpg?fit=750%2C535&amp;ssl=1\" class=\"wp-image-19982 size-full lazyload\" src=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/averagejoecyclist.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2016\/11\/Newcastle-upon-Tyne-cyclist1.jpg?resize=750%2C535&#038;ssl=1\" alt=\"Cycling can help you to build great legs - but it's not just about the legs! Why Cycling Is the Ultimate Full-Body Workout (and How to Get the Most Out of It)\" width=\"750\" height=\"535\" srcset=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/averagejoecyclist.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2016\/11\/Newcastle-upon-Tyne-cyclist1.jpg?w=750&amp;ssl=1 750w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/averagejoecyclist.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2016\/11\/Newcastle-upon-Tyne-cyclist1.jpg?resize=300%2C214&amp;ssl=1 300w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/averagejoecyclist.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2016\/11\/Newcastle-upon-Tyne-cyclist1.jpg?resize=150%2C107&amp;ssl=1 150w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/averagejoecyclist.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2016\/11\/Newcastle-upon-Tyne-cyclist1.jpg?resize=250%2C178&amp;ssl=1 250w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/averagejoecyclist.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2016\/11\/Newcastle-upon-Tyne-cyclist1.jpg?resize=320%2C228&amp;ssl=1 320w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 750px) 100vw, 750px\" \/><\/noscript> Cycling can help you to build great legs &#8211; but it&#8217;s not just about the legs!<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<h2>The Science Behind Why Cycling Works Your Whole Body<\/h2>\n<h3>1. Legs: The Powerhouse of Cycling<\/h3>\n<p>No surprises here\u2014your legs do a lot of the work. <strong>Your quadriceps, hamstrings, glutes, and calves<\/strong> all fire up when you pedal, helping you generate power and maintain speed.<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li><strong>Quadriceps (front of thighs)<\/strong>: Engage every time you push down on the pedal.<\/li>\n<li><strong>Hamstrings (back of thighs)<\/strong>: Help pull the pedal back up, especially with clip-in pedals.<\/li>\n<li><strong>Glutes (butt muscles)<\/strong>: Activate when you push down hard on the pedals, especially on climbs.<\/li>\n<li><strong>Calves<\/strong>: Work to stabilize your pedaling motion and help you maintain balance.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p>The best part? Because cycling is <strong>low-impact<\/strong>, it strengthens your leg muscles <strong>without the joint strain<\/strong> of high-impact activities like running.<\/p>\n<h3>2. Core: The Secret to Better Balance<\/h3>\n<p>Your <strong>abs and lower back muscles<\/strong> work overtime when you ride, even if you don\u2019t notice it.<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li>Your core helps you <strong>stay balanced<\/strong> on the bike.<\/li>\n<li>It <strong>absorbs shock<\/strong> from bumps and rough roads.<\/li>\n<li>A strong core makes long rides more comfortable and helps <strong>prevent lower back pain<\/strong>.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p>If you\u2019ve ever noticed your abs feeling sore after a long ride, that\u2019s because they\u2019ve been stabilizing your entire body the whole time. I know that after a long bike ride, my entire body feels pleasantly worked out and tired. And if you regularly stand up on the pedals as you power uphill, you will definitely be able to feel how hard your core is working.<\/p>\n<p>To protect your body as you ride, be sure to wear <a href=\"https:\/\/amzn.to\/4kDFLWs\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">padded shorts<\/a>, and ensure that your bike fits your body perfectly. To achieve this, you can pay for a professional fitting, buy an AI app such as <a href=\"https:\/\/www.myvelofit.com\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">MyVeloFit<\/a>, or buy the truly excellent book, <a href=\"https:\/\/amzn.to\/4hMUdJJ\">Bike Fit<\/a> by Phil Burt. I have a well-thumbed copy of this book on my bedside table. It&#8217;s full of essential advice. It helps that the book is beautifully designed (as a publisher, I appreciate beautifully produced books).<\/p>\n<figure id=\"attachment_45242\" aria-describedby=\"caption-attachment-45242\" style=\"width: 508px\" class=\"wp-caption aligncenter\"><a href=\"https:\/\/amzn.to\/4hMUdJJ\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"><img decoding=\"async\" data-attachment-id=\"45242\" data-permalink=\"https:\/\/averagejoecyclist.com\/piriformis-syndrome-in-cyclists\/bike-fit-book-cover-1\/\" data-orig-file=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/averagejoecyclist.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/02\/Bike-Fit-book-cover-1.jpg?fit=508%2C597&amp;ssl=1\" data-orig-size=\"508,597\" data-comments-opened=\"1\" data-image-meta=\"{&quot;aperture&quot;:&quot;0&quot;,&quot;credit&quot;:&quot;&quot;,&quot;camera&quot;:&quot;&quot;,&quot;caption&quot;:&quot;&quot;,&quot;created_timestamp&quot;:&quot;0&quot;,&quot;copyright&quot;:&quot;&quot;,&quot;focal_length&quot;:&quot;0&quot;,&quot;iso&quot;:&quot;0&quot;,&quot;shutter_speed&quot;:&quot;0&quot;,&quot;title&quot;:&quot;&quot;,&quot;orientation&quot;:&quot;0&quot;}\" data-image-title=\"Bike Fit book cover (1)\" data-image-description=\"\" data-image-caption=\"&lt;p&gt;It is absolutely essential to get your bike fit correct. This book shows you how to do it right. &lt;a href=&quot;https:\/\/amzn.to\/4hMUdJJ&quot;&gt;Click here to check out the current price on Amazon&lt;\/a&gt;&lt;\/p&gt;\n\" data-medium-file=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/averagejoecyclist.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/02\/Bike-Fit-book-cover-1.jpg?fit=255%2C300&amp;ssl=1\" data-large-file=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/averagejoecyclist.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/02\/Bike-Fit-book-cover-1.jpg?fit=508%2C597&amp;ssl=1\" class=\"wp-image-45242 size-full lazyload\" src=\"data:image\/gif;base64,R0lGODlhAQABAIAAAAAAAP\/\/\/yH5BAEAAAAALAAAAAABAAEAAAIBRAA7\" data-src=\"https:\/\/averagejoecyclist.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/02\/Bike-Fit-book-cover-1.jpg\" alt=\"Why Cycling Is the Ultimate Full-Body Workout (and How to Get the Most Out of It). Bike Fit book\" width=\"508\" height=\"597\" \/><figcaption id=\"caption-attachment-45242\" class=\"wp-caption-text\"><noscript><img data-recalc-dims=\"1\" decoding=\"async\" data-attachment-id=\"45242\" data-permalink=\"https:\/\/averagejoecyclist.com\/piriformis-syndrome-in-cyclists\/bike-fit-book-cover-1\/\" data-orig-file=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/averagejoecyclist.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/02\/Bike-Fit-book-cover-1.jpg?fit=508%2C597&amp;ssl=1\" data-orig-size=\"508,597\" data-comments-opened=\"1\" data-image-meta=\"{&quot;aperture&quot;:&quot;0&quot;,&quot;credit&quot;:&quot;&quot;,&quot;camera&quot;:&quot;&quot;,&quot;caption&quot;:&quot;&quot;,&quot;created_timestamp&quot;:&quot;0&quot;,&quot;copyright&quot;:&quot;&quot;,&quot;focal_length&quot;:&quot;0&quot;,&quot;iso&quot;:&quot;0&quot;,&quot;shutter_speed&quot;:&quot;0&quot;,&quot;title&quot;:&quot;&quot;,&quot;orientation&quot;:&quot;0&quot;}\" data-image-title=\"Bike Fit book cover (1)\" data-image-description=\"\" data-image-caption=\"&lt;p&gt;It is absolutely essential to get your bike fit correct. This book shows you how to do it right. &lt;a href=&quot;https:\/\/amzn.to\/4hMUdJJ&quot;&gt;Click here to check out the current price on Amazon&lt;\/a&gt;&lt;\/p&gt;\n\" data-medium-file=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/averagejoecyclist.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/02\/Bike-Fit-book-cover-1.jpg?fit=255%2C300&amp;ssl=1\" data-large-file=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/averagejoecyclist.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/02\/Bike-Fit-book-cover-1.jpg?fit=508%2C597&amp;ssl=1\" class=\"wp-image-45242 size-full lazyload\" src=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/averagejoecyclist.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/02\/Bike-Fit-book-cover-1.jpg?resize=508%2C597&#038;ssl=1\" alt=\"Why Cycling Is the Ultimate Full-Body Workout (and How to Get the Most Out of It). Bike Fit book\" width=\"508\" height=\"597\" srcset=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/averagejoecyclist.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/02\/Bike-Fit-book-cover-1.jpg?w=508&amp;ssl=1 508w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/averagejoecyclist.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/02\/Bike-Fit-book-cover-1.jpg?resize=255%2C300&amp;ssl=1 255w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 508px) 100vw, 508px\" \/><\/noscript><\/a> It is absolutely essential to get your bike fit correct. This book shows you how to do it right. <a href=\"https:\/\/amzn.to\/4hMUdJJ\">Click here to check out the current price on Amazon<\/a><\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n<table id=\"tablepress-244\" class=\"tablepress tablepress-id-244\">\n<thead>\n<tr class=\"row-1\">\n\t<th colspan=\"2\" class=\"column-1\"><center>Products We Recommend to Help You Work Out Your Entire Body on a Bike<\/th>\n<\/tr>\n<\/thead>\n<tbody class=\"row-striping row-hover\">\n<tr class=\"row-2\">\n\t<td class=\"column-1\"><figure id=\"attachment_44630\" aria-describedby=\"caption-attachment-44630\" style=\"width: 178px\" class=\"wp-caption aligncenter\"><a href=\"https:\/\/amzn.to\/4ebhm7A\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"><img data-recalc-dims=\"1\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"wp-image-44630 size-full\" src=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/averagejoecyclist.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/06\/Przewalski-Mens-Bib-Shorts-table-2-1.jpg?resize=178%2C251&#038;ssl=1\" alt=\"\" width=\"178\" height=\"251\" \/><\/a><figcaption id=\"caption-attachment-44630\" class=\"wp-caption-text\">Przewalski Men\u2019s Bib Shorts, with padding. Very highly rated for comfort. Around $40. <a href=\"https:\/\/amzn.to\/4ebhm7A\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Please click here to see current best price on Amazon<\/a><\/figcaption><\/figure><\/td><td class=\"column-2\"><figure id=\"attachment_44638\" aria-describedby=\"caption-attachment-44638\" style=\"width: 200px\" class=\"wp-caption aligncenter\"><a href=\"https:\/\/amzn.to\/4aPSqPK\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"><img data-recalc-dims=\"1\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"wp-image-44638 size-full\" src=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/averagejoecyclist.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/06\/Terry-padded-womens-bike-shorts.jpg?resize=200%2C231&#038;ssl=1\" alt=\"\" width=\"200\" height=\"231\" \/><\/a><figcaption id=\"caption-attachment-44638\" class=\"wp-caption-text\">Terry Padded Women's Bike Shorts. Around $60. <a href=\"https:\/\/amzn.to\/4aPSqPK\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Please click here for current price on Amazon<\/a><\/figcaption><\/figure><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr class=\"row-3\">\n\t<td class=\"column-1\"><figure id=\"attachment_44620\" aria-describedby=\"caption-attachment-44620\" style=\"width: 200px\" class=\"wp-caption aligncenter\"><a href=\"https:\/\/amzn.to\/4e257Kp\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"><img data-recalc-dims=\"1\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"wp-image-44620 size-full\" src=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/averagejoecyclist.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/06\/Bike-Fit-2nd-edition-Optimise-Your-Bike-Position-for-High-Performance-and-Injury-Avoidance-1.jpg?resize=200%2C242&#038;ssl=1\" alt=\"\" width=\"200\" height=\"242\" \/><\/a><figcaption id=\"caption-attachment-44620\" class=\"wp-caption-text\">Bike Fit 2nd edition: Get your bike fitted perfectly to avoid injuries such as Piriformis Syndrome. Around $30. <a href=\"https:\/\/amzn.to\/4e257Kp\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Please click here to view the best current price on Amazon<\/a><\/figcaption><\/figure><\/td><td class=\"column-2\"><figure id=\"attachment_45257\" aria-describedby=\"caption-attachment-45257\" style=\"width: 100px\" class=\"wp-caption aligncenter\"><a href=\"https:\/\/amzn.to\/4gTs5Dt\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"><img data-recalc-dims=\"1\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"wp-image-45257 size-full\" src=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/averagejoecyclist.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/02\/foam-roller-1.jpg?resize=100%2C245&#038;ssl=1\" alt=\"Foam roller to prevent Piriformis Syndrome\" width=\"100\" height=\"245\" \/><\/a><figcaption id=\"caption-attachment-45257\" class=\"wp-caption-text\">A foam roller can help a lot to prevent Piriformis Syndrome. Around $35. <a href=\"https:\/\/amzn.to\/4gTs5Dt\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Please click here to view current price on Amazon<\/a><\/figcaption><\/figure><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<\/tbody>\n<\/table>\n<!-- #tablepress-244 from cache -->\n<h3>3. Upper Body: More Than Just Holding the Handlebars<\/h3>\n<p>While cycling isn\u2019t an upper-body strength workout in the way that lifting weights is, your <strong>arms, shoulders, and upper back<\/strong> play a huge role in stabilizing your ride.<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li><strong>Your biceps and triceps<\/strong> support your weight, especially when leaning forward.<\/li>\n<li><strong>Your shoulders and upper back<\/strong> help maintain posture and absorb shock.<\/li>\n<li><strong>Your forearms and grip strength<\/strong> improve from holding onto the handlebars, especially during long rides or rough terrain. Be sure to wear <a href=\"https:\/\/amzn.to\/4hp65kr\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">good cycling gloves<\/a> to absorb some of the impact and protect your wrists and elbows.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p>If you ride up hills or off-road, you\u2019ll notice your arms getting an even bigger workout as you pull on the handlebars for leverage.<\/p>\n<h3>4. Heart and Lungs: The Engine That Keeps You Going<\/h3>\n<p>Cycling is one of the best cardiovascular workouts. <strong>Studies show that regular cycling improves heart health, reduces blood pressure, and boosts lung capacity<\/strong> (<a href=\"https:\/\/www.health.harvard.edu\/staying-healthy\/pedal-power\">Harvard Medical School<\/a>).<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li>Cycling strengthens your <strong>heart muscle<\/strong>, making it more efficient at pumping blood.<\/li>\n<li>Cycling helps lower <strong>bad cholesterol (LDL)<\/strong> and increase <strong>good cholesterol (HDL)<\/strong>.<\/li>\n<li>Cycling <strong>boosts lung function<\/strong>, making it easier to breathe during other physical activities.<\/li>\n<li>Cycling is one of the best ways to improve your \u00a0VO\u2082 max. A higher VO\u2082 max means your body can use oxygen more efficiently, which is directly linked to longer life expectancy and better quality of life.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p>One study found that <strong>cycling just 30 minutes a day reduces the risk of heart disease by up to 50%<\/strong> (<a href=\"https:\/\/www.bhf.org.uk\/\">British Heart Foundation<\/a>). Pretty impressive for something that feels more like play than work!<\/p>\n<h4 style=\"text-align: center;\">Related Post: <a href=\"https:\/\/averagejoecyclist.com\/optimal-hiit-training-bike\/\">What Is the Optimal Frequency of HIIT Training on a Bike to Increase VO\u2082 Max?<\/a><\/h4>\n<h4 style=\"text-align: center;\">Related Post: <a href=\"https:\/\/averagejoecyclist.com\/exercise-is-miracle-cure\/\">Science Shows that Exercise is a Miracle Cure and Protects You from Diseases<\/a><\/h4>\n<h2>How to Maximize Your Cycling Workouts for Full-body Gains<\/h2>\n<h3>1. Adjust Your Intensity<\/h3>\n<p>The harder you push, the better your workout. Mix up your rides with:<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li><strong>Steady-state rides<\/strong> for endurance (riding at a moderate pace for a long time). This is the famous Zone 2 training that is so huge on YouTube at the moment!<\/li>\n<li><strong>High-intensity intervals<\/strong> for speed and power (very short sprints followed by recovery intervals). See our <a href=\"https:\/\/averagejoecyclist.com\/optimal-hiit-training-bike\/\">post on the optimal frequency of HIIT training<\/a>.<\/li>\n<li><strong>Hill climbs<\/strong> to really engage your legs and core. Not to mention your heart and lungs, of course!<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<figure id=\"attachment_29612\" aria-describedby=\"caption-attachment-29612\" style=\"width: 750px\" class=\"wp-caption aligncenter\"><img decoding=\"async\" data-attachment-id=\"29612\" data-permalink=\"https:\/\/averagejoecyclist.com\/cycle-for-the-cause\/cycle-for-the-cause-10k\/\" data-orig-file=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/averagejoecyclist.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/09\/Cycle-for-the-Cause-10K.jpg?fit=750%2C420&amp;ssl=1\" data-orig-size=\"750,420\" data-comments-opened=\"1\" data-image-meta=\"{&quot;aperture&quot;:&quot;0&quot;,&quot;credit&quot;:&quot;&quot;,&quot;camera&quot;:&quot;&quot;,&quot;caption&quot;:&quot;&quot;,&quot;created_timestamp&quot;:&quot;0&quot;,&quot;copyright&quot;:&quot;&quot;,&quot;focal_length&quot;:&quot;0&quot;,&quot;iso&quot;:&quot;0&quot;,&quot;shutter_speed&quot;:&quot;0&quot;,&quot;title&quot;:&quot;&quot;,&quot;orientation&quot;:&quot;0&quot;}\" data-image-title=\"Cycle for the Cause &#8211; 10K\" data-image-description=\"\" data-image-caption=\"&lt;p&gt;Interval training is a way to achieve maximum health and fitness benefits in short periods of time. Photo credit: Inspired Storytellers&lt;\/p&gt;\n\" data-medium-file=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/averagejoecyclist.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/09\/Cycle-for-the-Cause-10K.jpg?fit=300%2C168&amp;ssl=1\" data-large-file=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/averagejoecyclist.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/09\/Cycle-for-the-Cause-10K.jpg?fit=750%2C420&amp;ssl=1\" class=\"wp-image-29612 size-full lazyload\" src=\"data:image\/gif;base64,R0lGODlhAQABAIAAAAAAAP\/\/\/yH5BAEAAAAALAAAAAABAAEAAAIBRAA7\" data-src=\"https:\/\/averagejoecyclist.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/09\/Cycle-for-the-Cause-10K.jpg\" alt=\"Why Cycling Is the Ultimate Full-Body Workout (and How to Get the Most Out of It). High Intensity Interval Training (HIIT) is a way to achieve maximum health and fitness benefits in short periods of time. Photo credit: Inspired Storytellersdo Interval Training on Your Bike\" width=\"750\" height=\"420\" \/><figcaption id=\"caption-attachment-29612\" class=\"wp-caption-text\"><noscript><img data-recalc-dims=\"1\" decoding=\"async\" data-attachment-id=\"29612\" data-permalink=\"https:\/\/averagejoecyclist.com\/cycle-for-the-cause\/cycle-for-the-cause-10k\/\" data-orig-file=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/averagejoecyclist.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/09\/Cycle-for-the-Cause-10K.jpg?fit=750%2C420&amp;ssl=1\" data-orig-size=\"750,420\" data-comments-opened=\"1\" data-image-meta=\"{&quot;aperture&quot;:&quot;0&quot;,&quot;credit&quot;:&quot;&quot;,&quot;camera&quot;:&quot;&quot;,&quot;caption&quot;:&quot;&quot;,&quot;created_timestamp&quot;:&quot;0&quot;,&quot;copyright&quot;:&quot;&quot;,&quot;focal_length&quot;:&quot;0&quot;,&quot;iso&quot;:&quot;0&quot;,&quot;shutter_speed&quot;:&quot;0&quot;,&quot;title&quot;:&quot;&quot;,&quot;orientation&quot;:&quot;0&quot;}\" data-image-title=\"Cycle for the Cause &#8211; 10K\" data-image-description=\"\" data-image-caption=\"&lt;p&gt;Interval training is a way to achieve maximum health and fitness benefits in short periods of time. Photo credit: Inspired Storytellers&lt;\/p&gt;\n\" data-medium-file=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/averagejoecyclist.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/09\/Cycle-for-the-Cause-10K.jpg?fit=300%2C168&amp;ssl=1\" data-large-file=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/averagejoecyclist.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/09\/Cycle-for-the-Cause-10K.jpg?fit=750%2C420&amp;ssl=1\" class=\"wp-image-29612 size-full lazyload\" src=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/averagejoecyclist.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/09\/Cycle-for-the-Cause-10K.jpg?resize=750%2C420&#038;ssl=1\" alt=\"Why Cycling Is the Ultimate Full-Body Workout (and How to Get the Most Out of It). High Intensity Interval Training (HIIT) is a way to achieve maximum health and fitness benefits in short periods of time. Photo credit: Inspired Storytellersdo Interval Training on Your Bike\" width=\"750\" height=\"420\" srcset=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/averagejoecyclist.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/09\/Cycle-for-the-Cause-10K.jpg?w=750&amp;ssl=1 750w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/averagejoecyclist.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/09\/Cycle-for-the-Cause-10K.jpg?resize=300%2C168&amp;ssl=1 300w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/averagejoecyclist.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/09\/Cycle-for-the-Cause-10K.jpg?resize=250%2C140&amp;ssl=1 250w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/averagejoecyclist.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/09\/Cycle-for-the-Cause-10K.jpg?resize=320%2C179&amp;ssl=1 320w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 750px) 100vw, 750px\" \/><\/noscript> High Intensity Interval Training (HIIT) is a way to achieve maximum health and fitness benefits in short periods of time. Photo credit: Inspired Storytellers<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<h3>2. Engage Your Core<\/h3>\n<p>Instead of just sitting on the saddle, actively engage your core by keeping a slight forward tilt in your pelvis and maintaining a strong posture. This helps protect your lower back and <strong>makes your core muscles work harder<\/strong>. Of course, the key to sitting on your bike correctly starts with having the right saddle at the correct height, setback, and tilt. We have a post that explains exactly <a href=\"https:\/\/averagejoecyclist.com\/how-to-choose-right-bike-saddle\/\">how to fit your saddle perfect<\/a><a href=\"https:\/\/averagejoecyclist.com\/how-to-choose-right-bike-saddle\/\">ly<\/a>.<\/p>\n<h4 style=\"text-align: center;\">Related Post: <a href=\"https:\/\/averagejoecyclist.com\/how-to-choose-right-bike-saddle\/\">How to Find the Right Height and Setback for Your Bike Saddle<\/a><\/h4>\n<h3>3. Use Your Arms and Shoulders More<\/h3>\n<p>To turn cycling into an even better full-body workout, try:<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li>Riding out of the saddle occasionally. Standing on the pedals increases your power, and gives your body a welcome change of position. This reduces your chances of repetitive strain injuries.<\/li>\n<li>Choosing rougher terrain, which forces your upper body to engage more.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<h3>4. Mix in Strength Training<\/h3>\n<p>Since cycling is non-weight-bearing, adding <strong>strength training<\/strong> can definitely improve your power on the bike. Try:<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li><strong>Squats and lunges<\/strong> for stronger legs.<\/li>\n<li><strong>Planks and Russian twists<\/strong> for a rock-solid core.<\/li>\n<li><strong>Push-ups and pull-ups<\/strong> for better upper-body endurance.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<figure id=\"attachment_46036\" aria-describedby=\"caption-attachment-46036\" style=\"width: 750px\" class=\"wp-caption aligncenter\"><a href=\"https:\/\/amzn.to\/4bF2bCG\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"><img decoding=\"async\" data-attachment-id=\"46036\" data-permalink=\"https:\/\/averagejoecyclist.com\/cycling-is-the-ultimate-full-body-workout\/joe-pullups-750-x-420-1\/\" data-orig-file=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/averagejoecyclist.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/03\/Joe-pullups-750-x-420-1.jpg?fit=750%2C420&amp;ssl=1\" data-orig-size=\"750,420\" data-comments-opened=\"1\" data-image-meta=\"{&quot;aperture&quot;:&quot;0&quot;,&quot;credit&quot;:&quot;&quot;,&quot;camera&quot;:&quot;&quot;,&quot;caption&quot;:&quot;&quot;,&quot;created_timestamp&quot;:&quot;0&quot;,&quot;copyright&quot;:&quot;&quot;,&quot;focal_length&quot;:&quot;0&quot;,&quot;iso&quot;:&quot;0&quot;,&quot;shutter_speed&quot;:&quot;0&quot;,&quot;title&quot;:&quot;&quot;,&quot;orientation&quot;:&quot;0&quot;}\" data-image-title=\"Joe pullups 750 x 420 (1)\" data-image-description=\"\" data-image-caption=\"&lt;p&gt;I think that I only need two upper body exercises &#8211; pull ups and push ups. But that&#8217;s just me &#8211; each person is different, and that is where the book, &lt;a href=&quot;https:\/\/amzn.to\/4bF2bCG&quot;&gt;Strength and Conditioning for Cyclists&lt;\/a&gt;, is so handy. It shows you how to do a self-assessment to figure out your own training needs (off the bike)&lt;\/p&gt;\n\" data-medium-file=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/averagejoecyclist.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/03\/Joe-pullups-750-x-420-1.jpg?fit=300%2C168&amp;ssl=1\" data-large-file=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/averagejoecyclist.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/03\/Joe-pullups-750-x-420-1.jpg?fit=750%2C420&amp;ssl=1\" class=\"wp-image-46036 size-full lazyload\" src=\"data:image\/gif;base64,R0lGODlhAQABAIAAAAAAAP\/\/\/yH5BAEAAAAALAAAAAABAAEAAAIBRAA7\" data-src=\"https:\/\/averagejoecyclist.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/03\/Joe-pullups-750-x-420-1.jpg\" alt=\"I think that I only need two upper body exercises - pull ups and push ups. But that's just me - each person is different, and that is where the book, Strength and Conditioning for Cyclists, is so handy. It shows you how to do a self-assessment to figure out your own training needs (off the bike)\" width=\"750\" height=\"420\" \/><figcaption id=\"caption-attachment-46036\" class=\"wp-caption-text\"><noscript><img data-recalc-dims=\"1\" decoding=\"async\" data-attachment-id=\"46036\" data-permalink=\"https:\/\/averagejoecyclist.com\/cycling-is-the-ultimate-full-body-workout\/joe-pullups-750-x-420-1\/\" data-orig-file=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/averagejoecyclist.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/03\/Joe-pullups-750-x-420-1.jpg?fit=750%2C420&amp;ssl=1\" data-orig-size=\"750,420\" data-comments-opened=\"1\" data-image-meta=\"{&quot;aperture&quot;:&quot;0&quot;,&quot;credit&quot;:&quot;&quot;,&quot;camera&quot;:&quot;&quot;,&quot;caption&quot;:&quot;&quot;,&quot;created_timestamp&quot;:&quot;0&quot;,&quot;copyright&quot;:&quot;&quot;,&quot;focal_length&quot;:&quot;0&quot;,&quot;iso&quot;:&quot;0&quot;,&quot;shutter_speed&quot;:&quot;0&quot;,&quot;title&quot;:&quot;&quot;,&quot;orientation&quot;:&quot;0&quot;}\" data-image-title=\"Joe pullups 750 x 420 (1)\" data-image-description=\"\" data-image-caption=\"&lt;p&gt;I think that I only need two upper body exercises &#8211; pull ups and push ups. But that&#8217;s just me &#8211; each person is different, and that is where the book, &lt;a href=&quot;https:\/\/amzn.to\/4bF2bCG&quot;&gt;Strength and Conditioning for Cyclists&lt;\/a&gt;, is so handy. It shows you how to do a self-assessment to figure out your own training needs (off the bike)&lt;\/p&gt;\n\" data-medium-file=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/averagejoecyclist.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/03\/Joe-pullups-750-x-420-1.jpg?fit=300%2C168&amp;ssl=1\" data-large-file=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/averagejoecyclist.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/03\/Joe-pullups-750-x-420-1.jpg?fit=750%2C420&amp;ssl=1\" class=\"wp-image-46036 size-full lazyload\" src=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/averagejoecyclist.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/03\/Joe-pullups-750-x-420-1.jpg?resize=750%2C420&#038;ssl=1\" alt=\"I think that I only need two upper body exercises - pull ups and push ups. But that's just me - each person is different, and that is where the book, Strength and Conditioning for Cyclists, is so handy. It shows you how to do a self-assessment to figure out your own training needs (off the bike)\" width=\"750\" height=\"420\" srcset=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/averagejoecyclist.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/03\/Joe-pullups-750-x-420-1.jpg?w=750&amp;ssl=1 750w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/averagejoecyclist.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/03\/Joe-pullups-750-x-420-1.jpg?resize=300%2C168&amp;ssl=1 300w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 750px) 100vw, 750px\" \/><\/noscript><\/a> I think that I only need two upper body exercises &#8211; pull ups and push ups. But that&#8217;s just me &#8211; each person is different, and that is where the book, <a href=\"https:\/\/amzn.to\/4bF2bCG\">Strength and Conditioning for Cyclists<\/a>, is so handy. It shows you how to do a self-assessment to figure out your own training needs (off the bike)<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<p>Even two short strength sessions per week can make a noticeable difference. For a complete guide to this important aspect of cycling, check out this excellent book: <a href=\"https:\/\/amzn.to\/4bF2bCG\">Strength and Conditioning for Cyclists: Off the Bike Conditioning for Performance and Life<\/a> by Phil Burt and Martin Evans. This book will teach you how to assess your exact needs, find your imbalances, and fine tune your strength training for maximum benefit.<\/p>\n<figure id=\"attachment_45719\" aria-describedby=\"caption-attachment-45719\" style=\"width: 450px\" class=\"wp-caption aligncenter\"><a href=\"https:\/\/amzn.to\/4bF2bCG\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"><img decoding=\"async\" data-attachment-id=\"45719\" data-permalink=\"https:\/\/averagejoecyclist.com\/cycling-is-the-ultimate-full-body-workout\/strength-and-conditioning-for-cyclists-book-copy-1\/\" data-orig-file=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/averagejoecyclist.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/03\/strength-and-conditioning-for-cyclists-book-copy-1.jpg?fit=450%2C546&amp;ssl=1\" data-orig-size=\"450,546\" data-comments-opened=\"1\" data-image-meta=\"{&quot;aperture&quot;:&quot;0&quot;,&quot;credit&quot;:&quot;&quot;,&quot;camera&quot;:&quot;&quot;,&quot;caption&quot;:&quot;&quot;,&quot;created_timestamp&quot;:&quot;0&quot;,&quot;copyright&quot;:&quot;&quot;,&quot;focal_length&quot;:&quot;0&quot;,&quot;iso&quot;:&quot;0&quot;,&quot;shutter_speed&quot;:&quot;0&quot;,&quot;title&quot;:&quot;&quot;,&quot;orientation&quot;:&quot;0&quot;}\" data-image-title=\"strength and conditioning for cyclists book copy (1)\" data-image-description=\"\" data-image-caption=\"\" data-medium-file=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/averagejoecyclist.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/03\/strength-and-conditioning-for-cyclists-book-copy-1.jpg?fit=247%2C300&amp;ssl=1\" data-large-file=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/averagejoecyclist.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/03\/strength-and-conditioning-for-cyclists-book-copy-1.jpg?fit=450%2C546&amp;ssl=1\" class=\"wp-image-45719 size-full lazyload\" src=\"data:image\/gif;base64,R0lGODlhAQABAIAAAAAAAP\/\/\/yH5BAEAAAAALAAAAAABAAEAAAIBRAA7\" data-src=\"https:\/\/averagejoecyclist.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/03\/strength-and-conditioning-for-cyclists-book-copy-1.jpg\" alt=\"This book will teach you how to conduct a self-assessment of your own mobility and strength imbalances. This way you can assess your own needs, and devise a conditioning program that is perfectly suited to yourself\" width=\"450\" height=\"546\" \/><figcaption id=\"caption-attachment-45719\" class=\"wp-caption-text\"><noscript><img data-recalc-dims=\"1\" decoding=\"async\" data-attachment-id=\"45719\" data-permalink=\"https:\/\/averagejoecyclist.com\/cycling-is-the-ultimate-full-body-workout\/strength-and-conditioning-for-cyclists-book-copy-1\/\" data-orig-file=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/averagejoecyclist.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/03\/strength-and-conditioning-for-cyclists-book-copy-1.jpg?fit=450%2C546&amp;ssl=1\" data-orig-size=\"450,546\" data-comments-opened=\"1\" data-image-meta=\"{&quot;aperture&quot;:&quot;0&quot;,&quot;credit&quot;:&quot;&quot;,&quot;camera&quot;:&quot;&quot;,&quot;caption&quot;:&quot;&quot;,&quot;created_timestamp&quot;:&quot;0&quot;,&quot;copyright&quot;:&quot;&quot;,&quot;focal_length&quot;:&quot;0&quot;,&quot;iso&quot;:&quot;0&quot;,&quot;shutter_speed&quot;:&quot;0&quot;,&quot;title&quot;:&quot;&quot;,&quot;orientation&quot;:&quot;0&quot;}\" data-image-title=\"strength and conditioning for cyclists book copy (1)\" data-image-description=\"\" data-image-caption=\"\" data-medium-file=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/averagejoecyclist.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/03\/strength-and-conditioning-for-cyclists-book-copy-1.jpg?fit=247%2C300&amp;ssl=1\" data-large-file=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/averagejoecyclist.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/03\/strength-and-conditioning-for-cyclists-book-copy-1.jpg?fit=450%2C546&amp;ssl=1\" class=\"wp-image-45719 size-full lazyload\" src=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/averagejoecyclist.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/03\/strength-and-conditioning-for-cyclists-book-copy-1.jpg?resize=450%2C546&#038;ssl=1\" alt=\"This book will teach you how to conduct a self-assessment of your own mobility and strength imbalances. This way you can assess your own needs, and devise a conditioning program that is perfectly suited to yourself\" width=\"450\" height=\"546\" srcset=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/averagejoecyclist.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/03\/strength-and-conditioning-for-cyclists-book-copy-1.jpg?w=450&amp;ssl=1 450w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/averagejoecyclist.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/03\/strength-and-conditioning-for-cyclists-book-copy-1.jpg?resize=247%2C300&amp;ssl=1 247w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 450px) 100vw, 450px\" \/><\/noscript><\/a> This book will teach you how to conduct a self-assessment of your own mobility and strength imbalances. This way you can assess your own needs, and devise a conditioning program that is perfectly suited to yourself. <a href=\"https:\/\/amzn.to\/4bF2bCG\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Click here to view the current price on Amazon<\/a><\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<p>This book will also help you to avoid injury, which is crucial. In my experience, injuries can destroy your progress and actually cause you to lose most of your gains. I have had way too many injuries, largely due to my desire to imitate the hare &#8211; even though my genetics clearly want me to imitate the tortoise.<\/p>\n<h3>5. Stretch and Recover<\/h3>\n<p>Cycling can make your muscles tight, so stretch regularly\u2014especially your <strong>hip flexors, hamstrings, and lower back<\/strong>. Yoga and foam rolling can help keep you flexible and injury-free.<\/p>\n<h4 style=\"text-align: center;\">Related Post: <a href=\"https:\/\/averagejoecyclist.com\/complete-guide-to-stretching-for-cyclists\/\">Complete Guide to Stretching for Cyclists<\/a><\/h4>\n<figure id=\"attachment_45544\" aria-describedby=\"caption-attachment-45544\" style=\"width: 1003px\" class=\"wp-caption aligncenter\"><img decoding=\"async\" data-attachment-id=\"45544\" data-permalink=\"https:\/\/averagejoecyclist.com\/5-tips-to-make-indoor-cycling-more-comfortable\/joe-and-maggie-4-doing-yoga-in-the-sunshine-8-march-2024-1\/\" data-orig-file=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/averagejoecyclist.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/03\/Joe-and-Maggie-4-doing-yoga-in-the-sunshine-8-March-2024-1.jpg?fit=1003%2C576&amp;ssl=1\" data-orig-size=\"1003,576\" data-comments-opened=\"1\" data-image-meta=\"{&quot;aperture&quot;:&quot;0&quot;,&quot;credit&quot;:&quot;&quot;,&quot;camera&quot;:&quot;&quot;,&quot;caption&quot;:&quot;&quot;,&quot;created_timestamp&quot;:&quot;0&quot;,&quot;copyright&quot;:&quot;&quot;,&quot;focal_length&quot;:&quot;0&quot;,&quot;iso&quot;:&quot;0&quot;,&quot;shutter_speed&quot;:&quot;0&quot;,&quot;title&quot;:&quot;&quot;,&quot;orientation&quot;:&quot;0&quot;}\" data-image-title=\"Joe and Maggie 4 doing yoga in the sunshine 8 March 2024 (1)\" data-image-description=\"\" data-image-caption=\"&lt;p&gt;We like to do some yoga to stretch our bodies and avoid injuries&lt;\/p&gt;\n\" data-medium-file=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/averagejoecyclist.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/03\/Joe-and-Maggie-4-doing-yoga-in-the-sunshine-8-March-2024-1.jpg?fit=300%2C172&amp;ssl=1\" data-large-file=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/averagejoecyclist.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/03\/Joe-and-Maggie-4-doing-yoga-in-the-sunshine-8-March-2024-1.jpg?fit=750%2C431&amp;ssl=1\" class=\"size-full wp-image-45544 lazyload\" src=\"data:image\/gif;base64,R0lGODlhAQABAIAAAAAAAP\/\/\/yH5BAEAAAAALAAAAAABAAEAAAIBRAA7\" data-src=\"https:\/\/averagejoecyclist.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/03\/Joe-and-Maggie-4-doing-yoga-in-the-sunshine-8-March-2024-1.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"1003\" height=\"576\" \/><figcaption id=\"caption-attachment-45544\" class=\"wp-caption-text\"><noscript><img data-recalc-dims=\"1\" decoding=\"async\" data-attachment-id=\"45544\" data-permalink=\"https:\/\/averagejoecyclist.com\/5-tips-to-make-indoor-cycling-more-comfortable\/joe-and-maggie-4-doing-yoga-in-the-sunshine-8-march-2024-1\/\" data-orig-file=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/averagejoecyclist.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/03\/Joe-and-Maggie-4-doing-yoga-in-the-sunshine-8-March-2024-1.jpg?fit=1003%2C576&amp;ssl=1\" data-orig-size=\"1003,576\" data-comments-opened=\"1\" data-image-meta=\"{&quot;aperture&quot;:&quot;0&quot;,&quot;credit&quot;:&quot;&quot;,&quot;camera&quot;:&quot;&quot;,&quot;caption&quot;:&quot;&quot;,&quot;created_timestamp&quot;:&quot;0&quot;,&quot;copyright&quot;:&quot;&quot;,&quot;focal_length&quot;:&quot;0&quot;,&quot;iso&quot;:&quot;0&quot;,&quot;shutter_speed&quot;:&quot;0&quot;,&quot;title&quot;:&quot;&quot;,&quot;orientation&quot;:&quot;0&quot;}\" data-image-title=\"Joe and Maggie 4 doing yoga in the sunshine 8 March 2024 (1)\" data-image-description=\"\" data-image-caption=\"&lt;p&gt;We like to do some yoga to stretch our bodies and avoid injuries&lt;\/p&gt;\n\" data-medium-file=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/averagejoecyclist.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/03\/Joe-and-Maggie-4-doing-yoga-in-the-sunshine-8-March-2024-1.jpg?fit=300%2C172&amp;ssl=1\" data-large-file=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/averagejoecyclist.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/03\/Joe-and-Maggie-4-doing-yoga-in-the-sunshine-8-March-2024-1.jpg?fit=750%2C431&amp;ssl=1\" class=\"size-full wp-image-45544 lazyload\" src=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/averagejoecyclist.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/03\/Joe-and-Maggie-4-doing-yoga-in-the-sunshine-8-March-2024-1.jpg?resize=1003%2C576&#038;ssl=1\" alt=\"\" width=\"1003\" height=\"576\" srcset=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/averagejoecyclist.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/03\/Joe-and-Maggie-4-doing-yoga-in-the-sunshine-8-March-2024-1.jpg?w=1003&amp;ssl=1 1003w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/averagejoecyclist.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/03\/Joe-and-Maggie-4-doing-yoga-in-the-sunshine-8-March-2024-1.jpg?resize=300%2C172&amp;ssl=1 300w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/averagejoecyclist.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/03\/Joe-and-Maggie-4-doing-yoga-in-the-sunshine-8-March-2024-1.jpg?resize=750%2C431&amp;ssl=1 750w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/averagejoecyclist.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/03\/Joe-and-Maggie-4-doing-yoga-in-the-sunshine-8-March-2024-1.jpg?resize=768%2C441&amp;ssl=1 768w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 1000px) 100vw, 1000px\" \/><\/noscript> We like to do some yoga to stretch our bodies and avoid injuries<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n<table id=\"tablepress-244-no-2\" class=\"tablepress tablepress-id-244\">\n<thead>\n<tr class=\"row-1\">\n\t<th colspan=\"2\" class=\"column-1\"><center>Products We Recommend to Help You Work Out Your Entire Body on a Bike<\/th>\n<\/tr>\n<\/thead>\n<tbody class=\"row-striping row-hover\">\n<tr class=\"row-2\">\n\t<td class=\"column-1\"><figure id=\"attachment_44630\" aria-describedby=\"caption-attachment-44630\" style=\"width: 178px\" class=\"wp-caption aligncenter\"><a href=\"https:\/\/amzn.to\/4ebhm7A\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"><img data-recalc-dims=\"1\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"wp-image-44630 size-full\" src=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/averagejoecyclist.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/06\/Przewalski-Mens-Bib-Shorts-table-2-1.jpg?resize=178%2C251&#038;ssl=1\" alt=\"\" width=\"178\" height=\"251\" \/><\/a><figcaption id=\"caption-attachment-44630\" class=\"wp-caption-text\">Przewalski Men\u2019s Bib Shorts, with padding. Very highly rated for comfort. Around $40. <a href=\"https:\/\/amzn.to\/4ebhm7A\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Please click here to see current best price on Amazon<\/a><\/figcaption><\/figure><\/td><td class=\"column-2\"><figure id=\"attachment_44638\" aria-describedby=\"caption-attachment-44638\" style=\"width: 200px\" class=\"wp-caption aligncenter\"><a href=\"https:\/\/amzn.to\/4aPSqPK\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"><img data-recalc-dims=\"1\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"wp-image-44638 size-full\" src=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/averagejoecyclist.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/06\/Terry-padded-womens-bike-shorts.jpg?resize=200%2C231&#038;ssl=1\" alt=\"\" width=\"200\" height=\"231\" \/><\/a><figcaption id=\"caption-attachment-44638\" class=\"wp-caption-text\">Terry Padded Women's Bike Shorts. Around $60. <a href=\"https:\/\/amzn.to\/4aPSqPK\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Please click here for current price on Amazon<\/a><\/figcaption><\/figure><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr class=\"row-3\">\n\t<td class=\"column-1\"><figure id=\"attachment_44620\" aria-describedby=\"caption-attachment-44620\" style=\"width: 200px\" class=\"wp-caption aligncenter\"><a href=\"https:\/\/amzn.to\/4e257Kp\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"><img data-recalc-dims=\"1\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"wp-image-44620 size-full\" src=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/averagejoecyclist.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/06\/Bike-Fit-2nd-edition-Optimise-Your-Bike-Position-for-High-Performance-and-Injury-Avoidance-1.jpg?resize=200%2C242&#038;ssl=1\" alt=\"\" width=\"200\" height=\"242\" \/><\/a><figcaption id=\"caption-attachment-44620\" class=\"wp-caption-text\">Bike Fit 2nd edition: Get your bike fitted perfectly to avoid injuries such as Piriformis Syndrome. Around $30. <a href=\"https:\/\/amzn.to\/4e257Kp\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Please click here to view the best current price on Amazon<\/a><\/figcaption><\/figure><\/td><td class=\"column-2\"><figure id=\"attachment_45257\" aria-describedby=\"caption-attachment-45257\" style=\"width: 100px\" class=\"wp-caption aligncenter\"><a href=\"https:\/\/amzn.to\/4gTs5Dt\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"><img data-recalc-dims=\"1\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"wp-image-45257 size-full\" src=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/averagejoecyclist.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/02\/foam-roller-1.jpg?resize=100%2C245&#038;ssl=1\" alt=\"Foam roller to prevent Piriformis Syndrome\" width=\"100\" height=\"245\" \/><\/a><figcaption id=\"caption-attachment-45257\" class=\"wp-caption-text\">A foam roller can help a lot to prevent Piriformis Syndrome. Around $35. <a href=\"https:\/\/amzn.to\/4gTs5Dt\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Please click here to view current price on Amazon<\/a><\/figcaption><\/figure><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<\/tbody>\n<\/table>\n<!-- #tablepress-244-no-2 from cache -->\n<h2>Fueling Your Rides: Nutrition for Cyclists<\/h2>\n<p>What you eat before, during, and after a ride can make a huge difference in your energy levels and recovery.<\/p>\n<h3>Before Your Ride:<\/h3>\n<ul>\n<li><strong>Carbs<\/strong> (oatmeal, whole-grain toast, bananas) for quick energy.<\/li>\n<li><strong>Protein<\/strong> (Greek yogurt, eggs, tofu, nuts) for muscle support.<\/li>\n<li><strong>Hydration<\/strong>: Drink water before heading out.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<h3>During Your Ride:<\/h3>\n<ul>\n<li>For rides under an hour: Just water is fine.<\/li>\n<li>For rides over an hour: <strong>Electrolytes and light snacks<\/strong> (energy bars, fruit, or nuts).<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<h3>After Your Ride:<\/h3>\n<ul>\n<li><strong>Protein + carbs<\/strong> to help muscle recovery (chicken and quinoa, a smoothie with fruit and protein powder, or a tuna sandwich).<\/li>\n<li><strong>My personal favorite: <\/strong>Put a scoop of chocolate protein powder, a cup of Greek yoghurt, and a cup of frozen strawberries into a blender, and blend for just a couple of seconds. It tastes like a dessert, but provides vital nutrition to help your body recover. It would still be delicious with other flavors of protein powder, but for me, it\u2019s always about the chocolate.<\/li>\n<li><strong>More hydration<\/strong> to replace lost fluids.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n<table id=\"tablepress-226\" class=\"tablepress tablepress-id-226 tbody-has-connected-cells\">\n<thead>\n<tr class=\"row-1\">\n\t<th colspan=\"2\" class=\"column-1\"><center>Supplements for Cyclists that We Recommend<\/th>\n<\/tr>\n<\/thead>\n<tbody class=\"row-striping row-hover\">\n<tr class=\"row-2\">\n\t<td class=\"column-1\"><figure id=\"attachment_44662\" aria-describedby=\"caption-attachment-44662\" style=\"width: 150px\" class=\"wp-caption aligncenter\"><a href=\"https:\/\/amzn.to\/3XA3e0N\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"><img data-recalc-dims=\"1\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"wp-image-44662 size-full\" src=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/averagejoecyclist.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/06\/Precision-Hydration-Energy-gel-table.jpg?resize=150%2C198&#038;ssl=1\" alt=\"\" width=\"150\" height=\"198\" \/><\/a><figcaption id=\"caption-attachment-44662\" class=\"wp-caption-text\">Precision Hydration Fuel Gel with 30 grams of carbs. Precisely formulated to meet your carb needs on long bike rides. <a href=\"https:\/\/amzn.to\/3XA3e0N\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Please click here to see the current best price on Amazon<\/a><\/figcaption><\/figure><\/td><td class=\"column-2\"><figure id=\"attachment_44664\" aria-describedby=\"caption-attachment-44664\" style=\"width: 150px\" class=\"wp-caption aligncenter\"><a href=\"https:\/\/amzn.to\/3XzVcFj\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"><img data-recalc-dims=\"1\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"wp-image-44664 size-full\" src=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/averagejoecyclist.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/06\/Electrolytes-table.jpg?resize=150%2C169&#038;ssl=1\" alt=\"\" width=\"150\" height=\"169\" \/><\/a><figcaption id=\"caption-attachment-44664\" class=\"wp-caption-text\">Key Nutrients Electrolytes packets. Sugar free and pleasant tasting. <a href=\"https:\/\/amzn.to\/3XzVcFj\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Please click here to see the best current price on Amazon<\/a><\/figcaption><\/figure><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr class=\"row-3\">\n\t<td class=\"column-1\"><figure id=\"attachment_44668\" aria-describedby=\"caption-attachment-44668\" style=\"width: 150px\" class=\"wp-caption aligncenter\"><a href=\"https:\/\/amzn.to\/4bOy0bb\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"><img data-recalc-dims=\"1\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"wp-image-44668 size-full\" src=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/averagejoecyclist.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/06\/Dymatize-whey-protein-isolate-protein-table.jpg?resize=150%2C205&#038;ssl=1\" alt=\"\" width=\"150\" height=\"205\" \/><\/a><figcaption id=\"caption-attachment-44668\" class=\"wp-caption-text\">Dymatize ISO 100 Whey Protein Isolate Powder, Chocolate Peanut Butter Flavor. The best form of whey protein, with minimal fat and carbs. <a href=\"https:\/\/amzn.to\/4bOy0bb\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Please click here for current best price on Amazon<\/a><\/figcaption><\/figure><\/td><td class=\"column-2\"><figure id=\"attachment_44671\" aria-describedby=\"caption-attachment-44671\" style=\"width: 150px\" class=\"wp-caption aligncenter\"><a href=\"https:\/\/amzn.to\/4ce4ZWv\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"><img data-recalc-dims=\"1\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"wp-image-44671 size-full\" src=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/averagejoecyclist.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/06\/Naked-Pea-Protein-Powder-table.jpg?resize=150%2C209&#038;ssl=1\" alt=\"\" width=\"150\" height=\"209\" \/><\/a><figcaption id=\"caption-attachment-44671\" class=\"wp-caption-text\">Naked Pea Vegan Pure Protein Powder. An excellent form of protein with no additives and a bland taste. <a href=\"https:\/\/amzn.to\/4ce4ZWv\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Please click here to view current best price on Amazon<\/a><\/figcaption><\/figure><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr class=\"row-4\">\n\t<td colspan=\"2\" class=\"column-1\"><center><figure id=\"attachment_44701\" aria-describedby=\"caption-attachment-44701\" style=\"width: 112px\" class=\"wp-caption aligncenter\"><a href=\"https:\/\/amzn.to\/45g4JE0\"><img data-recalc-dims=\"1\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"wp-image-44701 size-full\" src=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/averagejoecyclist.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/06\/Sports-Nutrition-Omega-3-Fish-oil-table-smaller-1.jpg?resize=112%2C186&#038;ssl=1\" alt=\"\" width=\"112\" height=\"186\" \/><\/a><figcaption id=\"caption-attachment-44701\" class=\"wp-caption-text\">Sports Nutrition Triple Strength Omega-3 Fish Oil, from Wild Alaska Pollock. <a href=\"https:\/\/amzn.to\/45g4JE0\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Please click here to view current best price on Amazon<\/a><\/figcaption><\/figure><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<\/tbody>\n<\/table>\n<!-- #tablepress-226 from cache -->\n<h2>Sample Beginner\u2019s Cycling Workout Plan<\/h2>\n<p>Want to get the most out of your rides? Here\u2019s a simple <strong>4-week cycling plan<\/strong> to improve endurance and strength. This plan is for people who already do some cycling, <em>not<\/em> for complete beginners. If you are a complete beginner, you would be better off with our <a href=\"https:\/\/averagejoecyclist.com\/complete-bike-training-plan-for-cyclists\/\">Complete Cycling Training Plan<\/a>.<\/p>\n<h3>Week 1-2<\/h3>\n<ul>\n<li><strong>Day 1:<\/strong> 30-minute steady ride at a moderate pace.<\/li>\n<li><strong>Day 2:<\/strong> Rest or light stretching.<\/li>\n<li><strong>Day 3:<\/strong> 20-minute ride with short sprint bursts (30 sec fast, 1 min slow).<\/li>\n<li><strong>Day 4:<\/strong> Rest or strength training.<\/li>\n<li><strong>Day 5:<\/strong> 45-minute endurance ride.<\/li>\n<li><strong>Day 6:<\/strong> Hill ride or off-road cycling.<\/li>\n<li><strong>Day 7:<\/strong> Rest.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<h3>Week 3-4 (Increase intensity)<\/h3>\n<ul>\n<li><strong>Day 1:<\/strong> 40-minute ride with sprint intervals.<\/li>\n<li><strong>Day 2:<\/strong> Strength training.<\/li>\n<li><strong>Day 3:<\/strong> 60-minute endurance ride.<\/li>\n<li><strong>Day 4:<\/strong> Rest.<\/li>\n<li><strong>Day 5:<\/strong> Hill climbs.<\/li>\n<li><strong>Day 6:<\/strong> Easy recovery ride.<\/li>\n<li><strong>Day 7:<\/strong> Rest.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<h2>Final Thoughts: Cycling is the Ultimate Full-body Workout, so Ride Your Way to Full-Body Fitness<\/h2>\n<p>Cycling isn\u2019t just a leg workout\u2014it\u2019s a <strong>full-body<\/strong> experience that strengthens muscles, improves endurance, and supports heart and lung health.<\/p>\n<p>With the right <strong>intensity, nutrition, and workout plan<\/strong>, you can <strong>turn cycling into the ultimate fitness routine<\/strong>.<\/p>\n<p>So, what are you waiting for? <strong>Get on your bike and start pedaling toward better health!<\/strong><\/p>\n<h2>Related Medical Posts for Cyclists<\/h2>\n<p><strong>Related Post: <\/strong><a href=\"https:\/\/averagejoecyclist.com\/does-exercise-help-with-fat-loss\/\">Exercise Doesn\u2019t Help with Fat Loss \u2013 A Myth that Needs to be Busted?<\/a><\/p>\n<p><strong>Related Post: <\/strong><a href=\"https:\/\/averagejoecyclist.com\/how-to-come-back-from-a-cycling-injury\/\">How to Come Back from a Cycling Injury<\/a><\/p>\n<p><strong>Related Post: <\/strong><a href=\"https:\/\/averagejoecyclist.com\/patellar-tendinitis-cyclists-knee\/\">Four Steps to Prevent and Recover from Cyclist\u2019s Knee (Patellar Tendinitis)<\/a><\/p>\n<p><strong>Related Post:<\/strong> <a href=\"https:\/\/averagejoecyclist.com\/modify-bike-thumb-arthritis\/\">How to Modify Your Bike to Cycle with Thumb Arthritis (CMC Arthritis) or De Quervain\u2019s Tenosynovitis<\/a><\/p>\n<p><strong>Related Post:<\/strong> <a href=\"https:\/\/averagejoecyclist.com\/cycling-erectile-dysfunction\/\">Can Cycling Cause Penis Numbness, Erectile Dysfunction, and Prostate Cancer?<\/a><\/p>\n<p><strong>Related Post:<\/strong> <a href=\"https:\/\/averagejoecyclist.com\/guide-prevent-cure-plantar-fasciitis\/\">3 Easy Tips for Preventing Plantar Fasciitis \u2013 and 5 Simple Exercises to Cure It<\/a><\/p>\n<p><strong>Related Post: <\/strong><a href=\"https:\/\/averagejoecyclist.com\/iliotibial-band-syndrome\/\">How to Prevent and Treat Iliotibial Band Syndrome (ITBS)<\/a><\/p>\n<p><strong>Related Post: <\/strong><a href=\"https:\/\/averagejoecyclist.com\/piriformis-syndrome-in-cyclists\/\">Piriformis Syndrome in Cyclists \u2013 How to Prevent and Cure It<\/a><\/p>\n<p><strong>Related Post: <\/strong><a href=\"https:\/\/averagejoecyclist.com\/return-to-cycling-and-swimming-after-piriformis-syndrome\/\">Returning to Cycling and Swimming after Severe Piriformis Syndrome: A Step-by-Step Plan<\/a><\/p>\n<p><strong>Related Post: <\/strong><a href=\"https:\/\/averagejoecyclist.com\/guide-to-returning-to-cycling-after-piriformis-syndrome\/\">A Step-by-step Guide to Returning to Cycling After Severe Piriformis Syndrome<\/a><\/p>\n<p><strong>Related Post: <\/strong><a href=\"https:\/\/averagejoecyclist.com\/exercises-and-stretches-for-piriformis-syndrome\/\">Exercises and Stretches for Piriformis Syndrome in Cyclists<\/a><\/p>\n<p><strong>Related Post:<\/strong> <a href=\"https:\/\/averagejoecyclist.com\/miraculous-cheap-cure-cycling-knee-pain-2\/\">How to Cure Cycling Knee Pain with a Miraculous, Cheap Cure<\/a><\/p>\n<p><strong>Related Post:<\/strong> <a href=\"https:\/\/averagejoecyclist.com\/cyclists-knee-replacement-surgery\/\">5 Doctor\u2019s Tips to Start Cycling Again after Knee Replacement Surgery<\/a><\/p>\n<p><strong>Related Post:<\/strong> <a href=\"https:\/\/averagejoecyclist.com\/exercise-is-miracle-cure\/\">Science Shows that Exercise is a Miracle Cure and Protects You from Diseases<\/a><\/p>\n<p><strong>Related Post:<\/strong> <a href=\"https:\/\/averagejoecyclist.com\/7-ways-to-prevent-cycling-knee-pain\/\">7 Ways to Prevent Cycling Knee Pain<\/a><\/p>\n<p><strong>Related Post:<\/strong> <a href=\"https:\/\/averagejoecyclist.com\/3-exercises-to-cure-cycling-knee-pain\/\">Video: 3 Exercises for Cycling Knee Pain<\/a><\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>Did you ever think of cycling as a full-body workout? Many people assume cycling just works your legs, but in this post we explain how it also works your core, upper body, and cardiovascular system. In this post, we dive into why cycling is the ultimate full-body workout and explain how you can maximize its benefits. Our post includes advice on fueling your rides (nutrition for cyclists), as well as a Beginner\u2019s Cycling Workout Plan to improve endurance and strength.<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":1,"featured_media":29612,"comment_status":"open","ping_status":"open","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"_acf_changed":false,"_genesis_hide_title":false,"_genesis_hide_breadcrumbs":false,"_genesis_hide_singular_image":false,"_genesis_hide_footer_widgets":false,"_genesis_custom_body_class":"","_genesis_custom_post_class":"","_genesis_layout":"full-width-content","jetpack_post_was_ever_published":false,"_jetpack_newsletter_access":"","_jetpack_dont_email_post_to_subs":false,"_jetpack_newsletter_tier_id":0,"_jetpack_memberships_contains_paywalled_content":false,"_jetpack_memberships_contains_paid_content":false,"footnotes":"","jetpack_publicize_message":"","jetpack_publicize_feature_enabled":true,"jetpack_social_post_already_shared":true,"jetpack_social_options":{"image_generator_settings":{"template":"highway","default_image_id":0,"enabled":false},"version":2}},"categories":[406,2399],"tags":[],"class_list":{"0":"post-45685","1":"post","2":"type-post","3":"status-publish","4":"format-standard","5":"has-post-thumbnail","7":"category-cycling-and-health-cycling-and-fitness","8":"category-cycling-training-plans","9":"entry"},"acf":[],"yoast_head":"<!-- This site is optimized with the Yoast SEO Premium plugin v23.8 (Yoast SEO v25.3) - https:\/\/yoast.com\/wordpress\/plugins\/seo\/ -->\n<title>Why Cycling Is the Ultimate Full-Body Workout (and How to Get the Most Out of It) &#8226; 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