RETÜL

Emma Pallant is a British professional triathlete who recently secured her first victory of the Tri race season at Ironman 70.3 Florida, and finished in third at Ironman 70.3 St. George.

Prior to these recent achievements, Emma took a trip to Specialized Stellenbosch where she sought out the expertise of Retül Africa Manager and Fit expert Waylon Woolcock to dial in her riding position for the 2021 season.

We recently had a chance to catch up with Emma about her fit experience and how the data from Retül, along with the fitter’s expertise, helped her find the most aero position possible without compromising comfort or performance. And even learned something new about herself throughout the process.

Tell us a little bit about your Retül fit with Waylon

Whatever it is, the way you tell your story online can make all the difference.

It started off with a questionnaire, which was just going into personal things about me, what I found uncomfortable, where I thought I could improve, etc. So just the subject of stuff which was really cool because it felt really personalized. And I felt he pretty much got to know me as an athlete in those questions and that time we spent together first.

Then he put me on the bike and had a look at me just in my position as it was. It was explained to me the science of angles and what the best aerodynamic speed and science behind what the best ideal position would be. Then using that feedback from where I could improve personally as well. The whole point was comfort. So making sure that I could hold the position for a long time.

What did you learn from the fit?

I think it just made me think a lot more also about my cycling biomechanics. How I could be more efficient in my pedal stroke and where I was sitting on the bike and how I could also improve.

I had some areas that were a lot more flexible than other areas which was maybe holding my position back a little bit. I came away with some stuff to work on in the strength and flexibility side. And just the little things like even pulling my cleats a little bit back in my shoes, and putting some insoles in.

How was your experience overall and what were the biggest takeaways?

I just felt more connected to the pedals which has also helped my pedal stroke and cycling biomechanics. Highlighting the areas that I can work on as well as holding that position up at the top. He was also available for a follow up and questions afterwards, so nothing was set in stone. It was all flexible and could change anything if needed to be if there was any discomfort or anything I couldn't hold off trying to train in.

All around massively worthwhile experience. I really enjoyed it. I not only came away with a new bike position but a little bit more knowledge as well. And just things about the actual bike itself; how adjustable the bike is and the areas that we can move around, turn around and make it fit perfectly for me. A fab time and thank you to Specialized and thank you to Waylon.