Crushing Long Climbs, Sleep, Training Timing and More – Ask a Cycling Coach 356

TL;DR

Gravel racing requires a balance between maintaining speed and conserving energy, focusing on smooth riding, and maximizing opportunities for free speed. Pacing strategies should account for different sections, such as climbs and flats, and take into consideration the race's altitude and technical difficulty.

Transcript

Welcome to the podcast is dedicated to making you a faster cyclist. The ask a cycling coach podcast presented by trainer road. I'm coach Jonathan Lee. We have with us Canada and trainer roads, Amber Pierce. Good morning everyone. And we have ice frictions, specialized Alex. Hey everyone. It's just the three Amigos today. Just us three. It's going t... Read More

Key Insights

• 🗯️ Finding the right balance between maintaining speed and conserving energy is crucial in gravel racing.
• 🥶 Smooth riding and maximizing opportunities for free speed can have a significant impact on performance.
• 🧗 Pacing strategies should consider different sections of the race, such as climbs and flats, and account for variables like altitude and technical difficulty.

Questions & Answers

Q: What are the key factors to consider when pacing during gravel races?

Pacing in gravel races should take into account different sections, such as climbs and flats. It's crucial to stick to power targets suitable for your fitness level, particularly on climbs, while also considering altitude and technical difficulty.

Q: What strategies can help maximize free speed in gravel races?

Look ahead on the trail to pick better lines, focus on smooth riding, and carry momentum, especially in fast and twisty sections. Riding just below your threshold speed and setting a floor for power output during flatter sections can help maximize free speed.

Q: How important is nutrition and hydration during gravel races?

Proper nutrition and hydration are crucial during gravel races, as they impact both physical and cognitive performance. Maintaining mental focus and adequate fueling can help sustain performance throughout the race.

Summary & Key Takeaways

• Pacing in gravel racing is crucial, especially on climbs, where it's important to stick to power targets suitable for your fitness level while accounting for altitude.

• Smooth riding and maintaining momentum in fast and twisty sections can be more beneficial than pushing hard on the pedals, especially on flatter terrain.

• Focus on creating free speed, such as taking the best lines and carrying more speed in corners, and avoiding unnecessary surges that could lead to fatigue.

• Proper nutrition, hydration, and mental focus are essential during gravel races, as they can impact both physical and cognitive performance.