The Old Guy Bicycle Blog

If cycling is such good exercise, why don’t most cyclists have a visible six-pack? I’ve seen this question for years, and I understand why it sticks in your head. You’ll see a few riders who look absolutely shredded, and then you’ll see plenty of strong cyclists who can climb for miles, ride for hours, and still don’t have “magazine cover” abs. Here’s the truth: most cyclists have strong abs . They just don’t always have visible abs. And that is not a problem—it’s often a sign they’re doing things the healthy, sustainable way. Strong Abs vs Visible Abs Cycling forces your core to work the entire time. Your abs stabilize your torso, keep your hips steady, help you breathe efficiently, and transfer power to the pedals—especially when you’re climbing, sprinting, or riding in a low position. But here’s the key distinction: Strong abs are common in cyclists. Visible abs usually require a lower body-fat level than mo...