Technique
Technique
Technique is an important part of climbing and, while Swift says there is no “one magic technique” which works for every rider, there are ways to ensure you are as efficient as possible on the bike.
“When you’re seated you are smoother and your power is a bit more regulated,” says Swift, and if you watch the WorldTour peloton, most riders will stay seated for the majority of the time, climbing out of the saddle only when attacking, tackling steep pitches or attempting to break up the rhythm. “There are no spikes in power when you climb in the saddle, but some riders prefer to climb standing up, especially on steeper sections or out of corners, where it’s important to get your speed back up as quickly as possible.
“It comes down to personal preference,” Swift adds, so experiment in training to see what feels most natural – and quickest – for you. Cadence matters, too, and is intrinsically linked to whether you decide to climb seated or standing, and Swift’s team-mate, Geraint Thomas, recommends trying to maintain a cadence of around 80-90rpm.
You can also use the terrain to your advantage and Swift recommends accelerating out of corners and hairpins. “Use the corners to your advantage,” he says. “You’ve got the zig zags here on Box Hill. You can almost slingshot out of them to keep your momentum and build your speed back up.”
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