I agree - weight lifting and core exercises have had huge benefits for me on longer rides. Whereas previously I would start to start to get uncomfortable at the

I agree - weight lifting and core exercises have had huge benefits for me on longer rides. Whereas previously I would start to start to get uncomfortable at the end of 4+ hour rides with a sore neck, hands, and lower back - I have found that those symptoms have pretty gone away completely after adoption a strength training routine. It’s made what was already my favorite activity even more enjoyable. I think a lot of cyclists are afraid to put on muscle anywhere other than their legs, for fear of gaining weight. But really those fears are unfounded, and even a small amount of weight training would help with both their speed and enjoyment of the sport.