Since cycling exists, serious cyclist are placing their foot on the cycling pedal near the front of the foot. While developing a more ergonomic pedal first aimed at more cycling comfort I discovered by practice that there was no major difference in performance when performing an effort longer than 10 seconds. Cyclists riding on barefoot pedals report they are feeling less fatigued on these pedals and have less back and knee pain. I am trying to find out what the difference in muscle recruitment is and what effects are really worth mentioning.