I completely disagree about this reverse ankling, or did until I re-read the posting. One of the problems that I see from most "New" cyclists, is that the bike is not set up for them. One of the most important is saddle height. I know there are others, but saddle height will affect the pedalling stroke, and pedalling effect. I know that there will be some that disagree but if you set the saddle height up so that with the heel on the lower pedal, the leg is fully extended, not stretched or strained, then this is the start point. then set the saddle forward and back so the the knee is above the centre of the pedal, when the pedal is horizontal to the ground (pedal as far forward as possible) Some slight adjustment in any direction to get comfortable and ride. It works for 99% of riders. Only problem is, you will feel very high up on the bike, and most of us will not be able to touch the ground when sitting on the saddle.

Now to come back to the initial posting of reverse ankling. It will work as you will be setting all your leg through a wider arc, so cutting out cramps and stiffeness just a bit. From my point of view, I don't care how people ride a bike, as long as they are riding.