I rode yesterday with my coach. As part of my programme he rides with me once a month and I regard this as important for two reasons. Firstly, he can help me improve technically and, secondly, he can better assess my progress. Yesterday we rode one of my regular circuits which was surprisingly busy with holiday traffic and practised riding high cadence intervals. At over 100 I do tend to bounce around bit in the saddle. My coach advised that I should try to avoid this and aim for Contador like suppleness. I pointed out that if Contador had a 38F chest, he too might bounce!
I learnt that one of his other clients will become one of our cycling school apprentices in September, so unless I manage to chat to him first, news that I have a coach will inevitably leak out. I suspect most will not comprehend why and advise that now we have a Directeur Sportif, I can save myself the expense. They will, of course, fail to appreciate that not all coaches are made equal. Mine is well qualified and has significant experience in his field. Our Directeur Sportif, while a talented amateur rider, is just starting on the first rung of his new profession.
I’ve also charged my coach with seeking out a challenge for me for next year. Ideally I’d like it to be over a number of days, involve a few mountains, be well supported and not have too many other riders. This one won’t be easy. Any suggestions would be gratefully received.
