Uphill vs. Flat Cycling: Exploring the Science Behind the Ride The Knowledge by Wahoo

In this episode of The Knowledge Podcast by Wahoo, Neal Henderson and Dr. Jinger Gottschall delve into the difference between flat and uphill cycling. They discuss the challenges of collecting accurate data in outdoor riding environments and the current methodologies used in lab settings. Dr. J and Sir Neal explore various factors such as joint angles, muscle activity, seat position, cadence, and posture that impact the cycling experience. They also address the primary sources of resistance, including aerodynamic drag and gravitational resistance, and how they affect power output. Additionally, they touch upon the subjective perception of effort when cycling uphill and the physiological differences between climbers and flat specialists. Join us as we provide insights and scientific explanations behind the experience of riding uphill versus on flat terrain.