How do top cyclists train?

Tadej Pogacar is the second youngest champion of one of the most reputed cycling championships in the world. He was just 21 years old when he won, and no one expected him to beat his own role model, Primoz Roglic, also one of the best cyclists worldwide. He used to practice football in his earlier days, but when his brother started training for cycling, he joined as well. Let's look at how cyclists usually train for big tournaments, and find out how Tadej achieved this monumental title.

Building the Base

7 months prior to the race, cyclists start training. This is a period when their focus isn't on their speed, but on their stamina and durability in the race. So, during this period, the intensity is really low. Adding to that, many riders also work on their strength and flexibility during this period. Moreover, bodyweight exercises and yoga are performed for the core.

Increasing the Intensity

The intensity of the training is leveled up in this duration i.e. almost 5 months before the race. Focus is put more on fitness during this time. Most cyclists join in the stage races to know their level before the actual Tour de France tournament. Focusing on fitness does not mean they lose their body weight. A balance has to be created between getting them fit for the race and not negatively impacting the change.

Specific Race Training

Almost 3 months before the race, cyclists shift to race specific training. Until now, they were training for their core, fitness and durability but now, it is time to focus on the race itself and to prepare for the tour. Indulging into various races is an important part of this duration since they get to know a lot more about themselves. Various camps are conducted too, for team building and getting to know their players.

1 Week Prior

By this time i.e. 1 week before the race, most racers have completed their training by taking part in various races and camps etc. This time is used for tapering. From riding for almost 6 to 7 hours, they go down to 1 hour and take most days off. During this time they focus on short-speed training.

This is how the Tour de France cyclists train. It's one of the hardest pieces of training, but surely, one of the most fruitful as well.