tjwoodruff

Over the past weekend I took advantage of the opportunity to attend the Elite Coaching conference offered by USAC at the Olympic Training Center in Colorado Springs, CO. Always wanting to be a ‘student of coaching science’  it was a great four days of listening to presenting lecturers along with plenty of discussions concerning an array of cycling performance related topics. About thirty coaches were in attendance, all having differing backgrounds and connections to the sport . At times some of the material certainly raised questions, but this is all part of the learning process. As a coach it can be easy to get comfortable with a set way of doing the training, but as more research is done there will always be ways that we can better ‘tweak’ the old tried-and-true, even if for no reason other than to offer a rider a new challenge towards a familiar outcome.  The conference was a good reminder that it’s important to question methodology and to do things purposefully.

My coaching mantra has always been to understand a rider’s situation (how does riding mesh with the day-to-day life) and goals, then to move forward by prescribing purposeful and directed training so that progress can be measured and goals accomplished along the way.  Fitting with this philosophy, the discussions concerning nutrition periodization, sports psychology, interval training, and overtraining were all very applicable. With some athletes more coaching attention given to nutritional concerns could really aid their overall performance, while for others more conversation regarding the ‘nuts and bolts’ of their interval sessions might be most helpful in the end.

Each rider brings something unique to the coaching experience so having four days to cover an umbrella of topics was fantastic. I’m excited to use a bit of the conference with each of the athletes I’m working with. Coaching is rewarding work and the conference proved to be a nice part of my continuing education. As a USAC certified coach since 2003, it’s nice to have earned the ‘Level I’ certification, even though certifications don’t mean a whole lot when it really comes down to the day in/day out coaching. Fortunately those who I work with seem to agree that it’s largely a positive experience.

Enjoy the ride,

who: you and your ‘cross friends
what: Cyclocross Practice
when: 7:00 am Tuesdays
where: Himmel Park (google directions)
why: have fun while refining your skill and fitness all at the same time

With a full slate of Cyclocross racing to come this season take advantage of an opportunity to hone in your ‘cross skills with a weekly cyclocross session. This informal practice will allow you to dial your dismount and perfect your transition over the barriers and back onto the bike.  Cyclocross requires a certain level of finesse and practicing will allow you to become more smooth. Whether cyclocross is something brand new to you, or if you’re a veteran of the discipline, feel free to join in. Ride your cross bike or your MTB (minus bar-ends).

We’ll set up pvc barriers and do some trial runs, move things around and try some more situations. Himmel’s terrain even allows for a run up. Come ready to practice and enjoy all that is ‘cross! Make it a skills ride or incorporate some race efforts to boost the fitness. Have questions or need further details? Simply stop on by or email twoodruff@momentumendurance.com.  See you there!

For further reference, here are some links to some helpful cyclocross resources:

Wiki – what is cyclocross?
Tucson CX Series – Calendar
AZ Cross (Phoenix series)
AZ Cycling.com

Momentum Endurance will be attending numerous races in the upper Midwest this season so be on the lookout. Stop by and say hi or ask a question or two if you have the chance. It’s our goal to enhance the experience of all participating athletes. Look for Momentum Endurance  at  WORS events and also the ‘Triple Crown’ of the Ore to Shore, Chequamagon, and Iceman. Best of luck with your training and preparations. Enjoy the ride,