grīndz
verb, noun
To push pedals in a low gear for an extended period of time.
Example usage: I was grinding up the hill for what felt like hours.
Most used in: Mountain biking and long-distance cycling.
Most used by: Cyclists who ride in hilly terrain.
Popularity: 8/10
Comedy Value: 6/10
What Are Grinds In Cycling?
Grinds are a type of cycling technique used to increase power and speed. It involves pushing the pedals in a circular motion, similar to a grinding motion. The aim of grinds is to create a more efficient and powerful pedal stroke. This technique is used in road cycling, mountain biking, and track cycling.
Research has found that when grinds are used correctly, they can increase power output by up to 15%. This translates to an increase in speed of up to 5%. As a result, grinds can be an effective way to improve your performance on the bike.
Grinds require practice and technique to get right. It’s important to keep a steady cadence and maintain a smooth pedal stroke. To get the most out of grinds, you should focus on keeping your legs moving in a circular motion and not just pushing the pedals down in a straight line.
In summary, grinds are a cycling technique used to increase power and speed. When used correctly, they can give you an edge on the bike. However, they require practice and technique to get right. With consistent practice, you can master grinds and see an increase in your performance.
The Origin of the Term 'Grinds' in Cycling
The term 'grinds' has been used in the context of cycling for at least the past 100 years, and it is thought to have originated in the United States. The earliest known reference to the term was in an article published in 1919 in the magazine Outing, which described the process of grinding up a steep hill on a bicycle as a “grind”.
The term has since become a part of the language of cyclists, and is used to describe the effort required to climb a steep hill or traverse difficult terrain on a bicycle. It is also used to describe the process of pushing a bike up a hill or over rough terrain, although this is not its original meaning.
Today, the term 'grinds' is used by cyclists all over the world to describe the effort required to get up a difficult hill or over tough terrain. It is a term that is still as relevant today as it was when it was first coined over a century ago.
