Saddle Slang is sponsored by Rehook. Check out our tools, bike care and apparel

oh-vur un-dur in-tuh-vuhlz sik-ling

Noun, Verb

A type of cycling workout that alternates between short, intense bursts of speed and active recovery.

Example usage: 'I'm doing an over under intervals cycling workout today.'

Most used in: Urban settings and cycling groups.

Most used by: Competitive cyclists and those looking to increase their speed and endurance.

Popularity: 8/10

Comedy Value: 3/10

Also see: Interval Training, Over/Under Intervals, High-Low Intervals, On/Off Intervals,

What are Over Under Intervals Cycling?

Over Under Intervals Cycling is a type of interval training that helps cyclists to improve their performance and fitness. It involves alternating between high intensity efforts and low intensity recovery periods. The ratio of high intensity to low intensity efforts is usually set at 1:1 or 2:1.

The high intensity efforts are known as the ‘over’ portion and involve intense, short bursts of energy. These intervals should last between 30 seconds and 2 minutes. The low intensity efforts are known as the ‘under’ portion and involve a period of slower, steady cycling. The recovery periods should last between 1 and 5 minutes.

Over Under Intervals Cycling is a popular and effective form of training for cyclists. Studies have shown that it can improve aerobic capacity, muscular strength, and cycling performance. It can also help to build endurance and reduce fatigue.

If you’re a cyclist looking to improve your performance, Over Under Intervals Cycling can be a great way to get started. It’s an effective and efficient way to get your body in shape and ready for the next race or event.

 

The History of Over Under Intervals Cycling

The term 'over under intervals cycling' was first coined in the early 2000s by Dr. Stephen Seiler, a Norwegian exercise physiologist and researcher. He was studying the differences between various forms of cycling in terms of their effects on performance.

Dr. Seiler identified that there were two distinct types of cycling: over-under intervals and constant-power intervals. Over-under intervals involve alternating between two different power outputs, while constant-power intervals involve maintaining a constant power output. He found that the over-under intervals had a greater effect on performance than the constant-power intervals.

Since then, the term 'over under intervals cycling' has become widely used in the cycling community to refer to the practice of alternating between two different power outputs during a cycling session. This type of cycling has become popular among both recreational and competitive cyclists as it has been found to be an effective way to improve performance.

Back to blog

Leave a comment

Please note, comments need to be approved before they are published.

Saddle Slang

Find definitions for all of the technical terms, slang, and acronyms used in cycling. From the different types of bikes and their components, to training techniques, racing terminology and put downs, this dictionary has it all.

Talk the Talk
1 of 3

EXCLUSIVE OFFERS AND THE LATEST UPDATES BY EMAIL

FOLLOW THE NEWSLETTER