bicycling to develope leg strength

“I would like to know from the bicycling or hiking community your thoughts on using a bicycle to build up leg strength and overall stamina and what model and make bicycle you would suggest. Thanks for all information”

“I would think that the muscles for biking would be slightly diffrent for backpacking. But I'm not an expert at all, that is just a thought.”

“Bicycling will build leg strength, but if you are thinking of riding only to improve your hiking it's not the best way. It uses different muscles and isn't weight bearing. To get strong for hiking the best way is to go out and hike to build up the right muscle groups and all the small muscles in the your feet. Cycling won't toughen and exercise your feet and feet are like tires on a car for hiking. They can take a beating, especially carrying a pack over rough terrain. You also need good core and shoulder strength for backpacking and that not going to happen riding a bike. On the other hand cross training is good, but just make sure you hike too and don't depend on cycling alone to get in shape for backpacking.

As far as bikes, generally the more you pay the more efficient the bike and the longer you can play. Cheaper components don't last as long and will need to be replaced sooner than higher end stuff. The frame is the heart of a bike, at least on a hardtail so buy the best frame you can afford. You can always upgrade components later as they wear out.
last edited: 8/19/06 2:14:38 PM”

“I agree with the Rich and Spirit.

A bike is great for cross training and developing aerobic capacity. It's a good way to maintain or build stamina - while taking a break from higher impact and weigh bearing excercise. It's definitely a great thing to throw into the mix for maintaining overal fitness.”

“I don't know about leg muscles....but my bum still hurts from my 35km (about 21 miles) ride yesterday....did it in an hour 10 minutes. I haven't had a long ride in 2 months.”