Cold and injury

Yes, cycling is a sport for tough people. 

But sometimes, the image projected by television creates myths that, if taken at face value, can be detrimental to your training. Not to mention the serious injuries you can inflict on yourself by trying to imitate something you may not fully understand. 

Like the very harmful idea that to be a true road warrior, you have to wear as little clothing as possible, regardless of the context and temperature. 

However, the amateur who sees the pro with bare legs in the cold and rain of the Flemish classics probably doesn't know two things:

• First, these images are often taken at the end of the race, when runners have removed the clothing that had been keeping them warm in order to feel more comfortable in the final minutes of the event.
• It's a safe bet that these same runners dress appropriately for training, because they have long known what science has recently proven: training in the cold is harmful to your health.

Cold weather can cause injuries.

In a study published in 2016, scientists demonstrated that the effects of cold weather can be devastating for muscles and tendons.  

When the temperature of the muscles—inside the body, but just below the skin—drops below 32 degrees Celsius, they become more sensitive. This leads to more micro-tears caused by intense exercise, and the risk of injury increases significantly.

If it's chilly, put on your extra leg warmers, and never mind how you look!

Well warmed up

As we mentioned, the pros we see riding in bad weather set off well covered up and usually Shoe Covers take off their coats and Shoe Covers for the last part of the race. By then, their muscles are well warmed up. 

Professionals are often protected by thick layers of warming oil or cream containing capsaicin, a substance derived from chili peppers that produces a warming sensation when it comes into contact with the skin. 

But this is no substitute for a good warm-up or the protection offered by appropriate clothing. Ignore your ego and trust science to keep your legs strong and avoid injury.