What muscles do you use and tone when cycling?

Cycling is a fantastic sport for developing aerobic and cardiovascular fitness, but it also builds and tones muscles.

So exactly what muscles does cycling use?

Well, it predominantly works your leg and core muscles, which inevitably become toned as you clock up the bike miles.

Here, rehabilitation strength and conditioning coach Nick Beer goes into more detail…

What muscles does cycling work?

Glutes

Most active at the top of the pedal stroke just as you’re about to push down. They also provide hip stability and prevent us moving around in the saddle.

• Why is glute strength important?

Quads

The quadriceps function at their optimum on the down phase of the pedal stroke. Especially the VMO (vastus medialis oblique), which helps to push the big gear.

Hamstrings – The hamstrings flex the knee and pull the pedal upwards. They can easily become underactive due to their over dominant partner, the quads.

Calves

Help stabilise the pedal stoke.

• Calf muscle tear: What it is and how to treat it

Core muscles

These allow the lower limb to provide stability and power when we cycle. A strong core not only develops functional abs, but can help us become a more efficient cyclist.

Your core muscles are in the belly and the mid and lower back (torso), and include transversus abdominis, obliques, rectus abdominis, erector spinae, longissimus thoracis, latissimus dorsi, and trapezius.

Also remember that a strong upper body is just as important as it allows us to hold a better aerodynamic position.

The harmonious link between the lower and upper body enables us to apply greater consistent power, which leads to a faster and more competent cyclist.

Read more:

• What muscles do you use in front crawl?
• What muscles do you use when running?
• What muscles do you use in triathlon?