Originally Posted by Talldog

I don't know who these "serious" riders are that you know but what you, and apparently they, are saying is just plain wrong. Just do a simple Google search on the mechanics of pedalling. There are a ton of references and articles resulting from in depth testing. This is not my personal opinion, it is a fact based on biomechanics and the laws of physics. Lance Armstrong's own trainer (C, Carmichael) was one of the preeminent trainers who recognized and proved via testing that "pulling up" on the upstroke was not only fruitless, but detrimental. But believe whatever you want. I mean FWIW, some people still think Elvis is alive.

Originally Posted by Chris Carmichael

The way to improve mechanical efficiency is to learn to apply force through as much of the pedal stroke as possible, especially through the top and bottom. Overgeared, high-power, low-cadence workouts are essential. Climbing hills, seated, in a big gear forces George to keep force flowing to the pedals over the top and through the bottom of the stroke