VeloHeitz

Getting to the Next Level

Making the right choice in finding the correct coach to help reach your goals is very important, the right fit means everything. The path towards a goal is not a straight one. Great athletes are born, but champions are coached. An athlete and coach on the same page can navigate through the obstacles of the demanding sport of cycling.

I have been coaching at USA Cycling’s Junior Development Road camps since 1998. One of the first things I do in the introduction is ask the riders, “who has a coach”. Early on, only three or four riders would raise their hands. Now, more than 75% raise their hands. I believe that this is a direct reflection of the largest and talented Junior athlete pools in many years.

What is a coach

A coach wears many hats. The coach will often be a mentor, an advisor, role model, organizer, a source of knowledge and experience, motivation and reassurance.

Why consider a coach

One of the benefits of having a coach is that it takes the guess work out of the equation of a training plan. A coach offers knowledge of sport sciences and racing experience that will be critical in the development of new riders. A coach’s guidance can assist the rider in reaching their goals and making it to the next level.

When to consider a coach

When you become serious about reaching your performance goals. Regardless if you’re a seasoned master wanting to podium at the Senior Olympics, or a category rider wanting to make it to the next level, or a junior athlete wanting to race in Europe. You will need a network of people and resources that a coach can introduce you to.

How and what to consider in a coach – the right fit means everything.

The more an athlete knows about themselves and their goals, the better a coach can develop a comprehensive training program. The athlete should interview several coaches, getting a feel for the personality, character, and coaching philosophy. The athlete’s personality and values should be inline with perspective coach’s style for the partnership to be successful. Communication and trust will be the threads of the fabric for both athlete and coach to create a work of art with the training canvas.

Some key questions for an athlete to consider during the interview process would include, what are the coach’s qualifications? How long has the coach been coaching? Does the coach have a racing background and experience? Is the coach willing to provide a client referral list. Does the coach offer a full package, like fitness evaluations, fittings, off season weight training, equipment for testing, race day support, training clinics. How accessible is the coach? How often can the athlete call the coach? Will the coach analyze your power meter downloads in your emails? Lastly, and possibly most important, is the price right? I have seen coaching service fees as low as $35.00 a month to $3,000 a month.

It’s hard for a thoroughbred athlete to be patient. Bicycle racing can be very difficult on YOUTH. Becoming a bicycle racer takes time (3-5 years). Winning performances depend on a combination of physical and mental training and lots of experience. It will be important to learn something from every race, so race often. And get a coach, so you don’t have to graduate from the school of hard knocks.