Training makeover

An ambitious crosser chases the win with the help of coach Matt Rowe

What do you most want to improve in your cycling? I generally want to improve my all-round cycling ability. I can cope on climbs, flats, crits and cross races but I want to be able to take my current level that bit higher. I want to learn how to dig that bit deeper so as to stop losing the winner’s wheel. I also want to improve my understanding of recovery. What are your motivations? I am a naturally competitive person, and I want to show my kids exactly what can be achieved no matter the age or circumstances. And vanity — I like looking and feeling good. How you feel on the inside shows on the outside too. What are the biggest barriers to you training as well as you’d like? Consistency — I train very well when I do train but am easily sidetracked. Having the focus of a specific workout or effort in mind will always get me on the bike, but if nothing’s decided, I am more likely to have a brew and relax. In terms of available time, I have a very understanding wife and family, who don’t restrict me. Work occasionally hinders training, especially if I’m on a very physical job. Have you had to deal with any setbacks? Only through overtraining or lack of correct recovery. In early 2017 I had tonsillitis due to not resting after the cross season and then hitting the mountain bike season within six weeks. What are your strengths in training? I love the numbers side of training. If I have a time or numbers to hit, I generally perform. Also, determination and focus — if I have a goal, I do my hardest to achieve it. What are your weaknesses? Losing focus. As well as being drawn to a goal, I can get discouraged by not hitting numbers, form or targets when I know I should. This seriously impacted the end of the cyclocross season. I missed an ‘A’ race, which threw my head into the clouds.