goose70

Yesterday, I did my first outdoor ride since January 2. It was a solo 42-miler at a good pace, with no long climbing but a number of short, very steep hills tossed in. On the last hill (a more modest grade) at mile 41, my lower quad, just above my right knee, began to twitch rapidly and burn. It seemed to lose all strength, to the point where I needed to sit, shift to the small ring-23 and crawl up the hill. Even that was a struggle. After the ride, however, I had no lingering pain/twitching.

I’ve never experienced this before, and I’ve done much harder, much longer rides. Since early December, I have been training pretty intensely several times a week both in the weight room and indoor trainer, concentrating on intervals/increasing power. My legs have gotten bigger during that time, so I’m just wondering if what I experienced is a matter of bringing this new “bulk” online for longer rides.

Has anyone here had a similar experience? Any suggestions as to the cause and/or cure? My main concern is not continuing something that is leading towards an injury.

Thanks.

recursive

I've occasionally experienced muscle spasms, but it never seemed like what you're describing. If you're concerned about it you should probably go to a doctor.

Commodus

I've never experienced this either, or heard of it.

If it continues, I echo the recommendation above: see a doctor.

ColinL

Hmm. I'd be curious if it was a tendon or ligament issue...

StanSeven

Could be dehydration and/or electrolyte imbalance.

Ultraslide

I've had two similar problems. Once my quads when all twitchy like a hundred little cramps when climbing a hill at the end of a 40+ mile ride, early spring. I was just not in shape for the climbing. After I was a bit sore but I recovered. On another occasion I had an experience where I was climbing out of the saddle at end of a fast century. When I stood up the quads just above my right knee felt as if they were about to cramp (moderate pain) then suddenly it just opened up and felt great! I've had no pain in that part of leg/knee since. I'd say that if you have no residual pain or stiffness it's probably an over exertion issue. If you have residual soreness I'd see a doctor, just to be safe.

Also balance your strength training with some long easy spins. Lifting weights and doing hard intervals in January seems counterproductive unless you're in Australia.

znomit

If anything dumb is gonna happen, its gonna be at the 41