PIE-ram-idz
Noun
A type of interval training where riders alternate between high intensity efforts and rest periods
Example usage: 'We did some pyramids in our last group ride.'
Most used in: Cycling circles in the United States.
Most used by: Road cyclists and mountain bikers.
Popularity: 7/10
Comedy Value: 3/10
What Are Pyramids in Cycling?
Pyramids are a type of interval training used by cyclists to increase their speed and power. This type of training is designed to push the cyclist's body to its limits, and is used by professional cyclists to prepare for races. A pyramid workout involves performing a series of intervals that gradually increase in intensity, followed by a gradual decrease in intensity.
For example, a cyclist might start with a 3-minute interval at a moderate pace. Then, they would increase the intensity of the interval by 10-15 seconds for each successive interval, up to a peak interval of 10 minutes. Then, they would decrease the intensity of the interval by 10-15 seconds for each successive interval, until they reach the original 3-minute interval.
Pyramid workouts are a great way for cyclists to increase their speed and power. According to research, cyclists who perform pyramid workouts have shown an increase in their power output of up to 20%. Pyramid workouts are also beneficial for improving a cyclist's aerobic capacity and overall endurance.
Pyramid workouts can be adapted to suit a variety of goals and fitness levels, making them a great option for cyclists of all abilities. It is important to remember to warm up and cool down properly before and after each pyramid workout, and to listen to your body to ensure you don't over-exert yourself.
.The Origin of the Term 'Pyramids' in Cycling
The term 'pyramids' was first used to refer to a style of cycling in the early 1900s. It was first used to describe a steep hill climb, where cyclists had to cycle in a zigzag pattern up the hill. This style of cycling was popular in the Pyrenees mountains in France, and the term 'pyramids' was used to describe it.
The term has since been used to describe several different styles of cycling, including a pursuit-style race in which two riders race against each other in a pyramid formation. This style of racing was popular in the late 1950s and early 1960s. It was also used to describe a type of training in which cyclists would ride up steep hills, and then ride back down the hill in a pyramid formation.
Today, the term 'pyramids' is still used to describe a style of cycling, particularly in the context of hill climbing and mountain biking. It is also used to describe a type of interval training, where riders alternate between short, fast sprints and longer, slower climbs.
