Cycling Shoes: To Attach or Not?

For cyclists, as well as those who participate in the triathlon, may newbies ask themselves whether they want to have shoes that attach or do not attach to the bicycle pedals. Each person has their own preference and you may want to try both to see which works best for you.

When preparing to participate in a race, you want to make sure that you have made the right decision. Therefore, it is key to your performance to be used to whichever option you choose. If you train with your shoes loose from the cycle, never make a hasty decision to start with attached shoes right before the race because you think that it may improve your performance. Make sure that whichever option you choose, it is the one that you train with that you use on race day.

If you decide to use attached shoes for racing, remember to keep your eyes forward and look ahead when attempting to slip into the shoes. Never let your eyes go to your feet as you could end up going blindly head first. This will take practice so it is not something you want to start right before the big day.

Practice this method well before the race, either on a stationary trainer or on your own bike on a quiet road that does not have traffic. Every race is different and you could end up mounting your bike in a grassy area. Make sure you have tried that. During a triathlon, you may have sand or dirt in the area that could get on your feet if you leave the shoes attached to the pedals and enter barefoot. If that is the case, you may not want to attach the shoes to the pedals, but put them on before hopping on the bike.

Many athletes participating in the triathlon prefer to use their running shoes and attach pedal adapters for the cycling portion of the race.

The point is to be prepared and know your equipment, as well as you body. CROSSFIT 619 can help to get your most important tool, your body, ready for any big race or athletic event.