Saddle time refers to the duration for which a cyclist trains and competes on the bicycle. It illustrates how well a cyclist improves and how good their endurance is.
Time in the saddle improves muscle endurance, pedaling efficiency, and comfort in the aero position. Training plans typically prescribe weekly targets for saddle time—some sprinters might require a few hours, while long-distance riders and grand tour participants might require 15 hours or more. Alternating saddle time with rest and other forms of training prevents injuries and fatigue and enables consistent progress in cycling performance.
