Ask a Cycling Coach Podcast - Presented by TrainerRoad Does Breath Training Actually Make Cyclists Faster? | Ask a Cycling Coach Podcast 567
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Jan 15, 2026 Explore the intriguing world of breath training and its surprising effects on cycling performance. Discover research findings that question its significance for endurance improvement. Get expert advice on preparing for the Leadville race, focusing on power, pacing, and efficiency. Learn how to manage fatigue during multi-day stages and the importance of strategic nutrition. Plus, insights on returning to fitness after major health events and tips for new racers on positioning and race strategy make this a must-listen for cyclists!
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Breath Training Helps Sometimes, Not Always
- Systematic reviews show respiratory muscle training can help some sports but evidence is mixed for cyclists.
- Benefits depend on matching the breathing training to sport-specific ventilatory demands.
Cyclists Didnât See Clear Time Trial Gains
- Meta-analysis for cyclists showed no statistically significant time trial improvement after respiratory muscle training.
- P-values reported indicated results were indistinguishable from chance for key cycling outcomes.
Trained Cyclists Rarely Hit A Breathing Bottleneck
- Respiratory training appears more useful for untrained subjects than well-trained cyclists.
- Regular intense cycling likely already trains respiratory muscles enough so breathing rarely limits performance.