Can you hit these 11 off-the-bike fitness and health benchmarks?

Throwing down almost a dozen strength, flexibility and health benchmarks, we dare you pedalling specialists to put some numbers on your all-round athleticism

Female cyclist holding a plank position
(Image credit: Future)

We get it. You’re a cyclist – you enjoy riding your bike, not picking up and putting down heavy objects. But bear with us. Strength and flexibility training really does benefit cycling performance for all types of rider – research has shown it time and again.

The biggest gains are made by cyclists who target their weaknesses and work towards objective targets. To that end, we’ve compiled a list of 11 key exercises, split into four categories, with benchmark targets for each. Start gradually, work on each one over the winter, and we promise you’ll notice the benefit once the spring sunshine returns.

Thank you for reading 20 articles this month* Join now for unlimited access

Enjoy your first month for just £1 / $1 / €1

*Read 5 free articles per month without a subscription

Join now for unlimited access

Try first month for just £1 / $1 / €1