I am a recreational cyclist. I am thinking of getting serious. Some friends keep telling me that I don’t stand a chance since my legs aren’t big enough. Is leg size that important for cycling? I would hate to see my dreams crushed right away because of my genetics. Do I have any chance?
Of course that you can train seriously and compete successfully. Leg size is important in choosing the right bike frame. Many injuries and pain exist because the rider is not properly aligned. Too much stress on knees because of the improper bike frame size is a common thing. That is where the size matters. But only in order to choose a perfect bike. People with small, medium or big sized legs can find a good bike for themselves. The other thing when they speak of leg size is actually a size of your leg muscles. And that is something you can change for the better. Lifting weights can dramatically increase your leg size along with strength, power and endurance. Don’t be frightened by those stupid “genetic” theories that lack solid proof.