opt-uh-muhl kay-dens
Noun
The number of revolutions of the crank per minute, which is most efficient for a cyclist.
Example usage: 'My optimal-cadence is usually between 60-80 RPM.'
Most used in: Cycling communities around the world.
Most used by: Recreational and competitive cyclists.
Popularity: 8/10
Comedy Value: 2/10
Also see: Cadence, Pedal-rate, Crank-rate, Revolutions-per-minute (RPM),
What Is Optimal Cadence in Cycling?
Optimal cadence in cycling is the rate at which a cyclist should pedal to achieve the best performance. Cadence is the number of revolutions of the crank per minute (RPM). Optimal cadence is determined by the cyclist’s level of fitness, the type of bike being ridden, and the type of terrain being ridden.
For most cyclists, the optimal cadence range is between 80 and 100 RPM. This range is based on a study done by the University of Colorado Boulder, which found that cyclists who pedaled within this range had the most efficient performance. However, the optimal cadence range for individual cyclists can vary depending on the cyclist’s experience and fitness level.
It is important for cyclists to find their optimal cadence range, as it can help to improve performance and reduce the risk of injury. Higher cadence allows for more efficient energy transfer from the cyclist to the bike, while lower cadence can lead to overuse injuries due to the greater force placed on the muscles.
Finding your optimal cadence can be done by using a cadence sensor on your bike, or simply counting the number of revolutions of the crank over a minute. Once you’ve determined your optimal cadence, you can work on improving your performance by staying within the optimal range while riding.
The Origin of the Term 'Optimal Cadence' in Cycling
The term 'optimal cadence' was first utilized in the context of cycling in the early 1980s. It was first used by a group of researchers from the University of Massachusetts in the United States, who conducted one of the earliest studies on the sport.
The study focused on the effects of different cadences on cycling performance, and the researchers concluded that there was an optimal cadence for each cyclist, depending on their individual strengths and weaknesses. From this, the term 'optimal cadence' was coined to describe the range of cadences that a cyclist should aim to stay within in order to maximize performance.
Since then, the term 'optimal cadence' has become widely used in the cycling community, and is now an integral part of the sport. It is used to help riders identify the most efficient cadence for their individual needs, and is an important factor in successful cycling performance.
