Training & Nutrition - body shape and proportion

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yendor28
02-23-06, 08:35 PM
Hi,

I am a mesomorph (muscular build) but have a much bigger upper body than lower body.

I am very lean all over but ESPECIALLY in the legs. I have almost got bigger calves than quadriceps and always have since being a kid.

I used to do lots of toe raises and play basketball. I have been doing weights for about 7 years now.

I have trained upper body more as I would hit the gym when I was injured (generally ankles).

I am really into martial arts too.

I now cycle everywhere (car free).


My question is will this body shape hinder my cycling? Should I try and compensate with different exercises? Do I need to compliment cycling with any particular exercises? I suspect I need lower back work!

thank you!

mx_599
02-23-06, 10:06 PM
My question is will this body shape hinder my cycling? Should I try and compensate with different exercises? Do I need to compliment cycling with any particular exercises? I suspect I need lower back work!

thank you!
forget what you did in the past. tell us what you're doing besides cycling everywhere car free. what are you currently doing for your lower body?

i doubt your morphology is going to affect your pleasure riding. were you planning on being competative? if yes, well there will be cardiopulmonary factors that could play a larger part. some beyond your control. diet too.

so if you're not planning on being competative...who cares, just ride...be healthy!!

sorry i didn't give you advice yet, but you need to tell us more...
yendor28
02-23-06, 10:37 PM
thank you for the response. My post was rushed and vague.

I guess my issue is that since I have been cycling I have become SUPER lean in the legs and this makes my upper torso look massive. Is this how cycling affects most people? Does it affect individuals differently?



my training
-------------

return trip to work 5 x per week (2 x 30 minutes)

Gym (2 x per week)
Martial arts 4-5 times per week
Cycle 2 return trips per week (2 x 90 minutes) + (2 x 45 minutes)


+ any other commuting to places (car free)

Az B
02-24-06, 04:53 AM
Muscle size has very little to do with capability, especially in endurance sports.

Az