The pedals rotate about their long axis as the crank rotates about the axis of the bottom

bracket spindle. Cup/cone bearings are used at each end of the pedal spindle, the outer cone being adjusted so that there is no 'play' between the pedal and the spindle and the friction in the bearings is minimized. There are dust seals at both ends of the pedal to retain lubricant in the pedal hub and prevent the entry of road dirt.

The pedals may be of light metal construction with a cleat or clip to engage the riders shoe, or have a non-slip metal or rubber- type surface that holds the shoe in place by frictional forces.

From: Apps, "The Bicycle Book," Smithmark (1993)