Live Q&A with the Pros: Team Clif Bar Cycling's Pete Morris – Ask a Cycling Coach 147

TL;DR

Professional cyclist Pete Morris answers questions about criterium racing, race tactics, and nutrition in a relaxed Q&A format.

Transcript

everybody and welcome to a special episode of the live ask a cycling coach podcast thanks for joining us and coach Jonathan Lee and if you've noticed something's different here our CEO Nate Pearson is not here he's on vacation so but our head coach Chad cerumen is here everybody on the other side of things special guests on our side here Pete Morri... Read More

Key Insights

• 🏋️ Losing weight too quickly can result in a drop in FTP and muscle mass loss, so gradual weight loss is recommended for better long-term performance.
• ✋ Spending time riding at high intensities, such as 500+ watts and maintaining smooth pedaling through corners, helps replicate criterium race conditions.
• 😤 Building skills and trust in teammates during team drills and exercise can improve pack riding, bumping, and blocking abilities.
• 🌱 Following TrainerRoad's training plans helps structure and optimize training, but individual adjustments based on personal goals and experience are necessary.

Questions & Answers

Q: How do you as a non-sprinter compete in crit races where bunch sprints often determine the winner?

Even though I'm not a pure sprinter, being the best sprinter that's still there gives me a chance to win. I focus on races that suit my strengths, such as those with climbs or race scenarios that tire out the competition before the sprint.

Q: What nutrition tips do you have for long endurance rides of 12 or 24 hours to prevent muscle mass loss?

On extended endurance rides, it's challenging to prevent muscle mass loss completely. Consuming protein with fat during these rides can help delay muscle breakdown. However, muscle will still be used as fuel during these long rides, but focus on refueling and recovering properly after the event to minimize loss.

Q: What kind of jobs do your teammates have that allow them to train and travel for races?

My teammates have a range of jobs, including running their own businesses related to cycling, working at cycling companies, bike shops, sports retailers, or in healthcare fields such as nursing and anesthesiology. They prioritize their training and racing and use their vacation time for races.

Q: Do you find that your beard adds drag or increases watts?

While having a beard may increase drag slightly, it also adds character and generates cheering from the crowd, which can be motivating. The aerodynamic effect is negligible compared to the encouragement received.

Summary & Key Takeaways

• Pete Morris, a professional cyclist from Team Clif Bar, shares his experience and expertise in criterium racing, race tactics, and nutrition.

• Pete discusses his background in cycling and how he got into the sport.

• Team Clif Bar focuses on domestic elite criterium races, aiming to make their mark both nationally and locally.

• Pete provides insights into his training and preparation for crit races, emphasizing the importance of knowing your strengths and choosing the right races.

• Nutrition-wise, Pete suggests fueling with the right amount of protein and fat on long endurance rides to minimize muscle mass loss.