How Riders Prepare For Tour Down Under BURNER with Watts
Source: Watts Youtube Channel: How Riders Prepare For Tour Down Under BURNER
Video How Riders Prepare For Tour Down Under BURNER with Watts Youtube Channel
Video How Riders Prepare For Tour Down Under BURNER with Watts YouTube Channel.
How Riders Prepare For Tour Down Under BURNER | Watts
How Riders Prepare for the Heat
Many may think the Tour Down Under is the coldest event, but the reality is quite the opposite. The Australian summer can be scorching, and this presents a unique challenge for riders as they prepare for the race. The extreme heat of the race can take a toll on the performance of cyclists, and many have to adapt their training to acclimate to the conditions.
Training in Extreme Conditions
Riders from the Northern Hemisphere have to adjust to the hot Australian summer after coming from the cold winters of Europe. They use saunas, hot tubs, and indoor training sessions with warm clothing to prepare for the high temperatures and humid conditions. This heat adaptation is crucial for ensuring their bodies can handle the extreme conditions during the race.
Heat Acclimation Programs
Coaches have developed special adaptation programs for riders to help them cope with the extreme climate in Australia. By creating a similar environment to the race conditions, the riders’ bodies become accustomed to the heat, reducing the impact of the high temperatures during the race.
Heat Training for Endurance
Training in heat not only prepares riders for the Tour Down Under but also provides long-term endurance benefits. Studies have shown that training in the heat can have similar physical benefits to altitude training, stimulating the development of hemoglobin and increasing blood plasma volume, which enhances overall performance.
Challenges of Heat Training
While heat training is essential, it comes with its own set of challenges. Riders must be cautious not to push their bodies too hard during heat sessions, as this can lead to slower recovery and worsened performance. Monitoring body temperature and utilizing sensors to measure heat training are crucial in ensuring the effectiveness of the training without risking overexertion.
Cooling Off After Heat Training
Cooling off after intense heat training is just as important as the training itself. Failure to cool the body properly can lead to illness and worsened performance, as seen with Caleb Ewan, who felt unwell after training in the hot weather in Adelaide. Teams employ various cooling techniques, such as ice baths and ice vests, to help riders reduce swelling and maintain their performance in the heat.
UCI Heat Protocol
In response to the growing concern over extreme heat at cycling events, the UCI has introduced a heat protocol to complement its existing extreme weather guidelines. This protocol includes actions such as moving start zones to shaded areas, supplying teams with cold drinks and crushed ice during the race, and potentially altering the start time or neutralizing sections of the race to ensure the safety and well-being of the riders.
Conclusion
The Tour Down Under presents unique challenges for riders, particularly in terms of heat acclimation and training. As the climate continues to change, riders and teams must adapt to ensure the safety and well-being of the cyclists during these extreme conditions. Through innovative training methods and careful monitoring, riders can optimize their performance and excel in the scorching heat of the Australian summer.
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