Dipping toes

I am going through an indoor cycling program and in the video the instructors who are from New Zealand promote “dipping your toes” to help pedal faster through the sprints. Any idea why? What is the benefit other than a slight increase in rotation? I just think it’s more ineffective than anything else.

Thoughts?

I would guess to stiffen the ankle. Reducing the angle of a joint will reduce the force required to hold it in place.