GRIN-ding
verb, noun
Grinding is the act of pedaling with a high cadence and low gear.
Example usage: I was grinding up the hill to get to the top.
Most used in: Mountain biking and road cycling.
Most used by: Cyclists who are pushing themselves to their limits.
Popularity: 8/10
Comedy Value: 2/10
Also see: Grind (BMX Vs Road), Pedaling, Cranking, Spinning, Mashing, Hammering,
What is Grinding in Cycling?
Grinding is a term used in cycling to describe a type of pedaling style. It is also known as mashing, and involves pushing a high gear with a low cadence. This style of pedaling is usually used on long, steep climbs or sprints and is characterized by pushing down on the pedals with a lot of force.
Grinding is a very efficient way of cycling because it requires less energy than pedaling with a higher cadence. It is also a great way to build strength in the legs and increase cycling endurance. However, it can also be very fatiguing and can lead to overuse injuries if done too frequently.
Statistics show that the average cadence for grinding is between 30 and 50 rpm. Professional cyclists may be able to grind at a higher cadence, but most recreational cyclists will find it difficult to exceed 50 rpm. It is important to note that grinding should only be used for short periods of time, as it can be very taxing on the body.
In conclusion, grinding is a pedaling style used in cycling to provide maximum power on steep climbs or sprints. It is characterized by pushing a high gear with a low cadence, usually between 30 and 50 rpm. While it is an efficient way to cycle, it should only be used for short periods of time as it can be very fatiguing.
Grinding: A Cycling Term with its Origins in the USA
The term 'grinding' is a popular phrase used in cycling, referring to the slow and steady effort of pedaling up a steep incline. The term has its origins in the United States, where it was first used in the late 19th century to refer to the difficult and laborious task of cycling uphill.
The first documented use of the word “grinding” in relation to cycling appeared in an 1891 issue of Outing Magazine, where an article described the “grinding labor” of climbing a steep hill on a bicycle. The term then spread to other parts of the United States, eventually being adopted by cyclists all over the country.
These days, the term “grinding” is widely used by cyclists in all parts of the world. It’s a testament to the enduring legacy of the cycling culture in the United States, where the term was first coined almost 130 years ago.
