Can We Keep Up On A Pro Cyclist’s Interval Session? with GCN
Fuente: GCN Youtube Channel: Can We Keep Up On A Pro Cyclist’s Interval Session?
Video Can We Keep Up On A Pro Cyclist’s Interval Session? with Global Cycling Network
Video Can We Keep Up On A Pro Cyclist’s Interval Session? with Global Cycling Network YouTube Channel.
Can We Keep Up On A Pro Cyclist’s Interval Session?
## The Brutal Training Regimen of a Pro Cyclist: Can You Keep Up?
### Introduction
Pro cyclists are some of the fittest individuals on the planet. Their rigorous training regimens are designed to push the limits of human endurance and performance. But how hard do they really train? Can the average person train as hard as a professional cyclist? In this article, we join pro cyclist Matthew Ratell on a brutal interval training session to see just how challenging it can be.
### Meet Matthew Ratell
Matthew Ratell, a 21-year-old cyclist riding for Israel Premier Tech, is a pure climber with a body weight of 55 kg. His training session for the day is a grueling interval session on Mount Lemon, a 34 km climb near Tucson, Arizona. Joining him are two amateurs, Hank and Ollie, who are ready to see if they can endure the same training as a pro cyclist.
### Preparing for the Climb
As they approach Mount Lemon, Matthew explains the training session: seven 5-minute intervals at 5 watts per kilo, at a low cadence of 55 RPM, followed by 1 minute at 6 watts per kilo and a minute of easy recovery in between. The group takes a 20-minute easy warm-up, shedding light on the popularity of Mount Lemon among pro cyclists for its steady gradient and ability to accommodate interval training without steep inclines that hinder recovery.
### The Brutal Climb Begins
Starting the session, the group sets off, with the amateurs already feeling the pressure and the headwind making matters tougher. The big gear efforts meant pushing their legs to the limits, with Matthew maintaining an impressive pace and power output throughout. The first interval pushes them to their limits, and as each subsequent interval begins, the struggle becomes increasingly apparent.
### The Struggle Uphill
Throughout the intervals, the amateurs find themselves struggling to keep up with Matthew’s relentless pace. The burning sensation of lactate buildup and the relentless headwind only add to their challenges. As Matthew smoothly completes each interval, Hank and Ollie are left gasping for air, realizing the tremendous physical demands of pro-level cycling training.
### Reflecting on the Session
After completing the session, Matthew and the amateurs discuss the intensity and benefits of such training. Hank and Ollie express their admiration for Matthew’s ability to maintain high power output and cadence, acknowledging the vast difference between amateur and professional training. Matthew emphasizes the effectiveness of the Mount Lemon climb for challenging workouts and its resemblance to European climbs in terms of difficulty.
### Comparing Training Intensities
Matthew shares insights into his typical winter training regimen, indicating that the session they just completed is a staple in his training calendar. He also mentions more taxing workouts involving over-under intervals and extended threshold efforts, highlighting the relentless nature of pro-level training. The contrast between indoor and outdoor training becomes evident as they discuss the unique benefits of tackling the Mount Lemon climb.
### The Reality of Pro Cyclist Training
The session with Matthew provides a glimpse into the extreme training regimen of pro cyclists. The sheer intensity and demands of their workouts exemplify the level of dedication and physical prowess required to compete at the professional level. From the strain of lactate buildup to the relentless battle against the elements, it becomes clear that amateur cyclists face a monumental challenge in emulating the training of their professional counterparts.
### Conclusion
The experience of attempting to keep up with a pro cyclist’s training regimen offers a humbling perspective on the physical demands and dedication required for elite cycling. As Matthew gracefully navigates the challenging terrain, the amateurs struggle to maintain pace, emphasizing the vast gulf between amateur and professional training. The session on Mount Lemon serves as a testament to the relentless pursuit of excellence in pro cycling and the unparalleled physical feats achieved by these athletes. While the average person may not reach the level of a pro cyclist, the experience sheds light on the incredible dedication and physical capabilities of these extraordinary athletes.
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