Originally Posted by
rjm1982
For the speed...
Im no pro, but physics tells me that it takes the exact same energy input to move a specific weight a specific distance, no matter how fast your legs are going. You're basically choosing slow, high output movement, or fast, low output movement.
Calorie-wise, you should be the same either way.
However, your heart will appreciate the faster, easier pedaling (to a point)
This is purely speculation, too... but this post got me thinking. I wonder if the same principle applies as calories burned running vs. walking. Running burns more than walking the same distance because you're doing more vertical work (pushing yourself off the ground). So perhaps spinning fast burns slightly more because in addition to moving yourself forward, you're moving your legs up and down more.
That said, my newbie advice would be to not think too much, just ride in a way that's fun and feels good so you'll ride
more.
Welcome aboard!
