Originally Posted by
grolby
"The full pedal stroke" is essentially a myth. The way human physiology works, it's basically only possible to put meaningful power to the pedals on the downstroke. Studies of elite level athletes have demonstrated this - everyone mashes, and the best peddlers put a bit less downward force on the pedal during the upstroke.
Once when I was going up a hill out of the saddle, I ripped the upper part of my shoe off of the sole from pulling up on the pedal. Yes, clipless. It was interesting riding home after that.