ped-uhl
Noun, Verb
The part of a bicycle that the rider pushes to make the bike move forward
Example usage: I need to pedal faster if I'm going to beat my friend in the race.
Most used in: North America and Europe.
Most used by: Cyclists, especially those who race or commute.
Popularity: 9/10
Comedy Value: 3/10
Also see: crank, cleat, drivetrain, powerstroke,
What is Pedaling in Cycling?
Pedaling is the act of pushing down and pulling up on the pedals of a bicycle, which propels the bicycle forward. It is a fundamental component of cycling and is essential for both recreational and competitive cyclists. In fact, a cyclist’s power output is directly related to the number of pedal strokes they take per minute. According to research, the optimal pedal cadence is between 90 and 110 rpm (revolutions per minute) for most cyclists.
When pedaling, cyclists should be aware of their proper form. The most efficient pedaling technique is to push down on the pedal with the ball of the foot and pull up with the toes. In addition, cyclists should strive to keep their feet parallel to the ground throughout the entire pedal stroke. This helps to ensure that the cyclist is pushing with the maximum amount of force each time.
Pedaling is an important skill to master for both recreational and competitive cyclists. By properly pushing down and pulling up on the pedals, cyclists can maximize their power output and optimize their speed. With practice and proper form, cyclists can develop a strong pedaling technique that will help them reach their cycling goals.
The Origin of the Term 'Pedal' in Cycling
The term 'pedal' was first used in the context of cycling in 1892. The word was used in the Oxford English Dictionary to refer to the foot-operated lever of a bicycle, which is used to propel the machine. The term was derived from the French word 'pédale,' which was used to describe a small platform with a foot-operated lever.
The earliest bicycle designs were not equipped with pedals. Instead, riders used their feet to push themselves forward. This method of propulsion was known as 'running machine' and was popular in England during the late 1700s. By the early 1800s, the 'running machine' had been replaced by a machine with pedals. This early pedal-driven bicycle was known as a 'velocipede.'
By the 1860s, the pedal-driven bicycle had become popular throughout Europe and the United States. The term 'pedal' was adopted to describe the foot-operated lever of the bicycle. As cycling became more popular, the term 'pedal' was used to refer to the foot-operated lever of any two-wheeled vehicle. Today, the term 'pedal' is used to refer to the foot-operated lever of any vehicle, including bicycles, motorcycles, and cars.
