Gym: The Strength Paradox of Climbing

Afternoon Ride

Nichols 🥵 (last day of offseason training block)

Montrose 🥵

Pedal Mafia Ride (sweet spot work)

Had to change it up today. For me, doing the same ride over and over, I start to adapt to its flow. The body learns the rhythm, the nervous system predicts the stress, and the effort becomes efficient—but also familiar.

Today I wanted the opposite. A ride where I had no idea how it was going to unfold—when they’d attack, when it would recover, when it would chill, or when it would snap into a sprint. I didn’t even know the route, and that uncertainty matters.

From a science perspective, this kind of riding lights up the nervous system. Novelty increases neural demand, reaction speed, and cognitive engagement. The brain can’t autopilot. It has to process terrain, positioning, pacing, and decision-making in real time. That unpredictability challenges coordination, sharpens focus, and strengthens the connection between mind and body—true physical intelligence at work.

Physiologically, it forces rapid shifts between energy systems. Aerobic base, glycolytic bursts, recovery efficiency—all tested without warning. That’s how real adaptation happens. Not just stronger legs, but a more adaptable athlete.

Mentally, there’s freedom in not knowing. You stay present. You respond instead of anticipate. You trust your preparation and let curiosity lead instead of control.

That’s the energy I wanted today. Growth lives in uncertainty. Stay open. Stay engaged. Let the unknown make you sharper, stronger, and more alive.

Top Sports

Anthony Coach-Freeman

Montrose 🥵

2 Photos

5 Comments

Segments

Sign up to view more activities from Anthony Coach-Freeman

Gym: The Strength Paradox of Climbing

Afternoon Ride

Nichols 🥵 (last day of offseason training block)

Montrose 🥵

Pedal Mafia Ride (sweet spot work)

Want to see more?

The #1 app for runners and cyclists

Sign Up for Free. Track your progress and reach goals. Join 100 million active people on Strava.

See More from Anthony