The art of bicycle practice
Simply put, the art of bicycle practice is made up of both the mental and physical. I would say, it is often hard to find someone who has truly mastered both these aspects, but to find someone who has mastered what lies beneath the surface is even harder.
Along with the challenges posed by Covid-19 have come opportunities. With the modern cycling calendar, it’s not often riders will get a break from racing for much longer than their six weeks off-season; some will spend their time without touching the bike, some, without even thinking of it. Usually, once the off-season is over, riders are back to their typical training plan. With only a number of short months to get race-fit again, along with the cut-throat nature of professional cycling, it’s understandable that riders stick to what they know, rather than trying to think innovatively. However, lockdown offers us a golden opportunity to try new approaches and, perhaps, to perfect the art of bicycle practice.
Some may have taken this time to re-evaluate their ways. Some, to work on strengths and weaknesses. Some, to build on their foundations. Others will have enjoyed spending some quality time with family they are often apart from. Any which way, everyone will have come out of this experience having learnt something about themselves.
Ultimately, for some riders, I can see Covid-19 being the final straw. The mental space that is usually taken up with racing is suddenly empty, and when left to their own thoughts, I think a few will re-evaluate their priorities and call it a day.
On the other hand, the time spent away from racing will have allowed for some really productive reflection. It will have opened a window on new goals and methods and offered the perfect opportunity to adjust their all-round attitude to racing, including – but not limited to – its physical and mental demands. For a few, I think they will have mastered the art of bicycle practice… but we will only know once August arrives.