Biking and Skiing Fitness

The use of pedal and toe clip devices on road bikes engages muscles on the upstroke that would otherwise be relaxed. This adds a new dimension to the cycling workout that will help keep skiing muscles in shape. Some pedal restraints, called clipless pedals, require special footwear to clip onto the pedals and are the most popular among serious biking enthusiasts. However, there are basket type toe clip systems that do the same thing and at a much cheaper price.

Pedal and Toe Clip Devices

Pedal and toe clip devices of any kind are designed to restrain the foot to the pedal. That is, they are designed to keep the foot in contact with the pedal especially in wet conditions. If you are wearing sneakers it doesn’t have to be pouring rain to have your foot slip off the pedal - even a quick pass through a puddle can cause lose of contact. A pedal slip at any speed can be highly dangerous and thus the need for pedal restraints when doing more than casual road biking.

The basket type pedal and toe clip devices usually have a pliable cage in which you insert the foot, as well as an adjustable strap to tighten and keep the foot in place. The problem I have found in the use of this type of restraint is undertightening the strap for fear of not being able to pull the foot out quickly.

Any type of pedal restraint takes a bit of getting used to and it is necessary to develop an exit movement that becomes spontaneous. However, it is more difficult to find a toe clip pedal restraint of the basket type that feels secure and yet still provides for an easy exit.

The basket type toe restraints are good entry level devices and should you wish to step up the click-in clipless pedal models, requiring special footwear, it is advisable to visit a good bike shop for a professional demonstration and fitting.

Whether you choose the basket type or click-in pedal restraints you will enhance your workout and keep those skiing muscles in good off-season shape.