fatigue

[gsxrche]

I find that my thighs tire out more than anything else, even though I train ... cycle, weights, and run.  Is this a sign of something wrong or even right with my riding?

[EX#996]

Even though you train....

You don't use all the muscles that you do when your riding.  The best training I've seen for these muscles is dirt bikes so far....

The other thing that my be happening is that you are subconsiously keeping your thigh muscles tight as you race.  Try to be very aware of these muscle groups that if your legs are tight, ask yourself if they really need to be at this moment.

I used to show and train horses.  After getting out of the ring, my neck and shoulders would be just killing me.  I was tensing my neck muscles and shoulders without even realizing it.  It wasn't necessary to kept them tight like that for my posture or balance, it was just something I did.  After learning how to aware of that part of my body and learning to relax them, the fatigue and pain went away.

Good luck.  I'm sure there are others out here who are physcial trainers that could give you some more insight.

Dawn  :)

[danch]

You also don't use muscles the same way when you're bicycling or lifting weights - when you hang off the bike in a corner, your legs have to support your weight in a position where your thighs don't have much mechanical advantage, and they're under load for a period of time. On the bicycle, they're more extended, leading to better leverage (unless your fit is _really_ bad), and lifting weights, they're bearing the weight for much less time.

[Jeff]

recumbent bike
leg extensions
ankle weights 8 hrs a day

That will help a lot...  A dirt bike will do a great job with much fun, but if not available just do what you can...  I'm the same as you, with my thighs tiring out the most.  Concentrate on them in your daily activities & exercises and it'll get better...

Potassium is a big benefit at the track.  Pick up the OTC tablets which are like 99mg, and take 1 per 50lbs of body weight a couple times per day while racing.  If you're not really sweating, you don't need that much, but it will help. (note - I'm not a Dr, don't play one on TV either.  If you OD and kill yourself following my directions, I hold no responsibility.  Personally I've been doing this for 2 years with no negative side effects)..

[spyderchick]

Squats. In all of their various forms, including one legged squats. (consult a personal trainer for proper form) Then you need to do some dynamic training, side to side movements with your legs. The other problem that you will encounter is you can train your quads excessively, but not your hamstrings. Train your hamstrings to 2/3 of the weight you use to train your quads. Muscles work in groups and not by themselves, so train the entire leg, calves and shins as well. You'll need to do some core traininng, abs, but also a decent amount of lower back, using hyperextensions and if available, a back machine at a gym.

Use cross training to your advantage, such as the dirt bike riding that Dawn suggests. Get an XR 100 or a TTR 125 and have some fun. Many of the pros use that to improve their fitness. Use bicycling to extend your endurance.

Good luck.

[Gixxerblade]

I find that after I ride a horse that the same muscles hurt especially if I have been off of one for a long time. Horseback riding, hmmm I may be onto something.  :P

[Super_KC124]

Ice hockey seems to do the trick for me. Make sure to drink plenty of liquids.

[TZDeSioux]

I ride bulls during the winter and it does the trick! Remember to drink plenty of fluids before, during, and after race weekends.

[Super_KC124]

I ride bulls during the winter and it does the trick! Remember to drink plenty of fluids before, during, and after race weekends.

Riding bulls or slinging it? Or are you just full of it? ;D

Hey, Rev. Hows it going? :)

[TZDeSioux]

Riding bulls or slinging it? Or are you just full of it? ;D

Hey, Rev. Hows it going? :)

What's going on my good man Revin Kevin? You coming up to BHF for the May 7-8 weekend?
I ride bulls man. Like in Rodeos and stuff.