Many people who come to our Kensington cycle coaching clinic believe that the most important aspect of cycling is fitness, doing hours on the bike, strength, conditioning, and putting in the work. 

However, anyone that’s performed at an elite level will tell you that while this is important, the key factor to performance is your psychology and mindset for the challenge ahead. 

When we talk about your mindset, we don’t just think you should be in a good mood, we believe that you have to fall in love with the process whilst preparing a network of good influences around you to help you achieve your goals. 

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Here are our top tips to help you build a positive sphere of training. 

It starts at home. 

If you’re going to tackle an event or challenge, such as Peak Challenge, you need to talk to those around you and get their buy-in. It will require time away from home, and family and you’ll have to be self-centred for a period whilst you prepare. It’s vital others understand this and that you make adjustments. If possible, try and engage them in this process so they feel invested also. 

Why are you doing this?

Whether it’s a charity ride, a personal challenge, or to feel part of something larger, it’s important to remember why you are  training and preparing for an event or race. You can even incorporate this reminder into your training setup. For example, if you’re preparing for Amy’s Gran Fondo, you could tie a pink ribbon to your stem as a visual reminder. 

Train with another to stay accountable. 

For many of us, in particular, when it’s dark and cold, it’s easy to drop the ball and makeup excuses as to why you can’t or won’t do a training session. Riding and training with a coach or partner will keep you accountable and on track. 

Be realistic in your goal setting

Most of us don’t get paid to ride a bike and too often we see people set out on a training program that is not achievable with their lifestyle. You’re better off focusing on achievable distances each week, rather than overcommitting and underdelivering. 

Getting through your challenge

Once you’ve done your training, prepared, and are lined up and ready to ride, it’s important to stay focused and not get inside your head too much. It’s easy to wake up and feel daunted by the task ahead, or get ¾ of the way in and pull the pin. Remember why your there, know you’ve done the work, and enjoy the day!

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Book in a time to chat with us to see how we can help you with your cycling goals in 2022.