Developing Leg Strength Off The Bike

My number one bit of advice would be get a good gym coach, the guys that really know what they are doing can make a massive difference, where as those that don't are likely to get you injured. When it comes to weights(and in my view all training) form is everything, always strive for perfect technique, if your form starts to go the weight is too much, remember you are there to improve your sporting ability not to be a gym hero or to brag to your mates! Ignore the styles you see on tele in strong man comps etc, where they care more about the weight that is shifted rather than the effect it is having on there body.

I've been put off going to the gym precisely because of the above.

Would high gear, low cadence, seated high climbs replicate some gym work ?