Embarking on the journey from being a beginner cyclist to an advanced rider is an exciting and fulfilling endeavour. As you progress, having the right tools and technology can greatly enhance your training, performance, and overall cycling experience. Most importantly, you will need these tools if you ever want to follow a structured training plan or hire a cycling coach.

In this article, we will explore a comprehensive list of must-have tools that can aid in your transition from a beginner to an advanced cyclist with specific recommendations on what product/tools to get.

Table Of Contents:

• Bike Computer
• Power Meter
• Heart Rate Monitor
• Cadence Monitor
• Smart Trainer & Indoor Apps
• Data Analytics Software
• Professional Bike Fit
• High-Quality Cycling Clothes & Shoes
• Wearable & Other Technology
• Conclusion

1. Bike Computer

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A smart bike computer is an advanced cycling accessory that provides a wealth of data and features to enhance your cycling performance. With a built-in GPS, you can track your ride distance, speed, elevation, and route. Some models offer advanced features like turn-by-turn navigation, mapping, and route planning. Additionally, smart bike computers can connect to various sensors such as heart rate monitors, power meters, and cadence sensors to provide more detailed information about your performance. This data can be analyzed in real-time on the computer or uploaded to data analytics software like Strava or TrainingPeaks for in-depth analysis. Other features may include smartphone connectivity, text message and phone call alerts, and even integration with social media platforms. Overall, a smart bike computer can greatly enhance your cycling experience and help you track your progress towards your fitness goals.

These recommended bike computers or “head units” contain features you need such as independent GPS, route navigation, and the ability to follow workouts in real-time:

• Garmin Edge 530, Edge 830, Edge 1030
• Wahoo – all bike computer models are suitable
• Hammerhead Karoo 2

2. Power Meter

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Cycling power meters have become an indispensable tool for cyclists seeking to optimize their training and performance. A power meter is a device that measures the actual power output generated by a cyclist while riding. By accurately quantifying the exertion level, power meters provide valuable insights into the intensity and effectiveness of training sessions. With this data, cyclists can establish precise training zones, set specific power-based goals, and monitor their progress over time. Power meters enable cyclists to gauge their effort objectively, ensuring they train at the appropriate intensity for maximum efficiency and results. Additionally, power meters allow for real-time analysis during rides, enabling riders to make immediate adjustments to their pacing and effort. Whether for amateurs or professionals, cycling power meters have revolutionized the way cyclists train, helping them unlock their full potential and reach new levels of performance. If you ever want to get started with a personal coach, you will need a power meter.

Here are recommended brands of power meters for advanced cyclists (from most favourite):

• Quarq
• Stages Cycling
• Favero Electronics (Assioma)
• Garmin
• SRM
• Shimano

3. Heart Rate Monitor

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Heart rate monitors are essential tools for cyclists looking to optimize their training and performance. These devices measure the heart rate in real time, providing valuable insights into the intensity and effort exerted during rides. By monitoring your heart rate, you can gauge the level of exertion, track your cardiovascular fitness, and establish training zones tailored to your specific goals. Heart rate monitors allow cyclists to train effectively by ensuring they stay within their desired heart rate ranges, preventing overexertion or undertraining. 

Additionally, heart rate data can be analyzed post-ride, providing a comprehensive overview of your performance and enabling you to make informed adjustments to your training plan.

Any heart rate monitor brand is suitable.

4. Cadence Monitor

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Cadence monitors are valuable accessories for cyclists seeking to improve their pedalling efficiency and performance. A cadence monitor measures the number of pedal revolutions per minute (RPM), providing insights into the speed and rhythm of your pedalling. Maintaining an optimal cadence can help cyclists achieve a smooth and efficient pedal stroke, minimizing unnecessary strain and fatigue. Cadence monitors allow riders to monitor their cadence in real time, helping them establish and maintain their preferred cadence range. 

This information is crucial for optimizing performance, as different cadence ranges are suitable for different riding conditions, such as climbs, sprints, or endurance rides. By using a cadence monitor, cyclists can develop a more consistent and efficient pedalling technique, resulting in improved power output and better overall performance on the bike.

Any cadence monitor brand is suitable.

5. Smart Trainer & Indoor Apps

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Investing in a smart trainer opens up a world of indoor training possibilities. Smart trainers simulate real-world cycling conditions and can be connected to cycling apps like Zwift, FulGaz, and others. These apps provide structured workouts, virtual rides, and a global cycling community, making indoor training engaging, challenging, and effective. It is also a great way to test yourself by utilizing ramp tests to see how your fitness is progressing. It is recommended you buy a smart trainer that you can use with your outdoor bike. If you have an indoor bike like the Peloton and want to become a better cyclist, it’s time to replace it.

Recommended Smart Trainers:

• Elite Suito
• Elite Direto
• Tacx Neo
• Wahoo Kickr
• Zwift Hub

Recommended Indoor Apps:

• Zwift
• MyWhoosh
• Rouvy
• FulGaz
• TrainerRoad

6. Data Analytics Software

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Data analytics software plays a vital role in the world of cycling by providing cyclists with powerful tools to analyze and interpret their training data. These software platforms, such as TrainingPeaks, Strava, TrainerRoad, and TodaysPlan, offer a range of features and benefits.

One of the key advantages of data analytics software is the ability to track and record cycling activities. Cyclists can upload their ride data, including distance, time, speed, elevation, and power, to these platforms. This allows for a comprehensive view of training sessions and creates a historical record of performance.

These platforms also provide robust analysis tools to break down and interpret the collected data. Cyclists can analyze their training load, intensity, and progress over time, identifying trends and patterns that may impact their performance. This helps in setting training goals, planning workouts, and monitoring progress towards specific objectives.

Data analytics software often includes features for setting and tracking training metrics. Cyclists can define and monitor specific metrics such as power zones, heart rate zones, and training stress scores. These metrics provide a quantitative assessment of training efforts and help optimize training plans for better results.

Overall, data analytics software empowers cyclists to make data-driven decisions, refine their training strategies, and improve performance. By leveraging the insights provided by these platforms, cyclists can unlock their full potential, set new personal records, and achieve their cycling goals.

You can request a consultation with our coach and go through your data using WKO5 data analytics software.

7. Professional Bike Fit

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Although not a tool itself, a professional bike fit can’t be forgotten on this list. Proper bike fit is essential to optimize your riding position for comfort, power transfer, and injury prevention. A properly fitted bike ensures efficient pedalling and maximizes your performance potential. Consider consulting a professional bike fitter to fine-tune your bike’s geometry to match your body’s unique measurements and needs.

8. High-Quality Cycling Clothes & Shoes

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Investing in high-quality cycling apparel and shoes is essential for comfort, aerodynamics, and overall performance. Proper cycling clothing is designed to wick away sweat, provide ventilation and provide protection from bad weather. Having the right rain jacket for rain and downhills decreases the chance of getting sick from the weather. Most importantly, the right cycling shorts or “bibs” with high-quality chamois will enable you to train longer and with more comfort. Brand Assos is considered to have one of the best chamois on the market.

In the context of cycling, a chamois refers to a specific type of padding or cushioning that is incorporated into cycling shorts or bib shorts. It is designed to provide comfort and reduce friction between the cyclist’s body and the saddle during long rides.

Likewise, cycling shoes with a stiff sole and proper fit improve power transfer and pedalling efficiency. The soles from Specialized have different soles or “footbeds” for your body type. Furthermore, it is recommended you get shoes that you feel are stiff when pedalling, so get shoes you can make tight. This will reduce any power loss during pedalling.

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9. Wearable & Other Technology

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Recovery is an essential aspect of cycling training, and incorporating the right tools can greatly enhance your body’s healing and rejuvenation. When it comes to recovery, several tools are worth considering. A massage gun can be a cyclist’s best friend, providing deep tissue massage to alleviate muscle tension and promote faster recovery. Massage guns from Hyperice are considered to be a leading brand.

Compression socks are another valuable asset, as they enhance blood circulation, reduce swelling, and minimize muscle soreness. For optimized sleep and recovery, a smart mattress like Eight Sleep can monitor your sleep patterns, adjust the temperature, and ensure restorative rest. Wearable technology, such as the WHOOP fitness tracker, offers valuable insights into your recovery status by monitoring heart rate variability, sleep quality, and overall strain. PowerBreathe is also a great tool if you want to enhance your breathing and lungs. It’s a breathing trainer that strengthens your breathing muscles using resistance training.

By leveraging these recovery tools, cyclists can effectively support their body’s healing process, minimize fatigue, and maintain peak performance.

Recommended Tech:

• Whoop – wearable fitness tracker
• Hyperice Massage Gun
• Power Breathe – breathing training device
• Eight Sleep – smart mattress cover

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Conclusion

As you transition from a beginner cyclist to an advanced rider, equipping yourself with the right tools can significantly enhance your training, performance, and overall enjoyment of cycling. Whether it’s tracking your data, optimizing your bike fit, or if you want to start following a training plan or even hire a coach, these must-have tools will support your progression and help you reach new heights in your cycling journey. Embrace these tools, train smart, and ride with confidence as you continue to evolve as a cyclist.

The post Must-Have Tools & Tech For Advancing from Beginner to Advanced Cyclist appeared first on Pro Cycling Coaching.

Here are the official results:

https://www.triathlon.org/results/result/2022_world_triathlon_age_group_championships_abu_dhabi_aquabike/563147

The post Mary Anne wins Aquabike World Championships in 2022 appeared first on Pro Cycling Coaching.

“We got historic 2nd place at the UCI Road World Championships U23 for Czech Cycling Team with Mathias Vacek. What an incredible performance and a great ride by Mathias. Mathias Vacek is now set to join the World Tour Team Trek–Segafredo in 2023 on 3 years contract and we’ll certainly see him very often in the pro peloton.”

Also great result with Pavel Bittner for 6th place!

Mathias Vacek and coach Jakub Novak right after the ceremony at the World Championships U23 in 2022

Yevgeniy Fedorov of Kazakhstan, center, Mathias Vacek of Czech Republic, left, and Norway’s Soren Waerenskjold pose after receiving their medals for the under 23 men’s road race in Wollongong, Friday, Sept. 23, 2022. Fedorov won the gold, Vacek the silver and Waerenskjold took bronze. (AP Photo/Rick Rycroft)

Mathias Vacek at the finish line with his teammates

“After the U23 road race, I was able to catch up with some of my former teammates, including Jan Hirt, Stefan Kung or Silvan Dillier. So good to meet them in person after a long time”.

Jan Hirt with performance coach Jakub Novak

Stefan Kung discussion with Jakub Novak at the World Championships 2022, Road Race

Jakub cathing up with former teammate Silvan Dilier at the World Championships 2022, Road Race

The post Historic 2nd place at the UCI Road World Championships U23 with Mathias Vacek appeared first on Pro Cycling Coaching.

Jason’s main objective for this season remains the Tour of Bintan, happening in October 2022. Tour of Bintan is a stage race part of the UCI Gran Fondo World Series. More info on their website: https://www.tourdebintancycling.com/

The post Our athlete Jay B. wins Masters Singapore National Championships 2022 appeared first on Pro Cycling Coaching.

The Mackay-born ARA Pro Racing Sunshine Coast rider Bogna lined alongside four other Australians vying for the chance to ride as a professional in Europe and won his way through the final selection process, announced via a reality television-style Zwift Academy show over five episodes.

The arduous qualifying process saw 150,000 riders attempt the Academy process, with the final group of five men and five women whittled down from the crowd to compete in the finals in Mallorca, Spain.

“Alex outperformed over the whole week in general,” Kristof de Kegel, performance manager at Alpecin-Fenix, said in the broadcast announcing the winner on GCN. “The first days were still a bit hard to judge because the level of the riders was really close but the last two days Alex really made a difference and if he can make it at the end with all the pressure and all the eyes on you.”

“I have been coaching Alex since 2018, and he has incredible potential. I always knew it was just a matter of time when he gets a chance and shows who he is”, says his performance coach Jakub Novak.

The post Our Alex Bogna wins finals of Zwift Academy & signs with Pro Team Alpecin Fenix appeared first on Pro Cycling Coaching.

United States Olympic and Paralympic Committee (USOPC) presents our performance coach Jakub Novak the order of Ikkos on behalf of Alicia Dana, a medalist from the Paralympic Games in Tokyo 2020.

The Order of Ikkos is a medallion award symbolizing excellence in coaching made available to all individual U.S. Olympic and Paralympic medalists as representing the athletes’ achievement as an Olympic or Paralympic Medalist.

“I’d like to take this opportunity and thanks to Alicia Dana and USOPC for putting your trust in me and giving me the opportunity,” Jakub Novak. 

The order of Ikkos: Ikkos of Tarentum is the first recorded Olympic coach in ancient Greece. Ikkos won the pentathlon at the 84th Olympiad in 444 B.C. and later became known for his coaching ability as he led two fellow Tarentine athletes to gold medals in the same event.

The post Jakub Novak receives the Order of Ikkos, award for excellence in coaching appeared first on Pro Cycling Coaching.

The UCI Pro Team Caja Rural-Seguros announced the arrival of  Michal Schlegel for 2022, a professional cyclist coached by Jakub Novak from ProCyclingCoaching.

After three years at Elkov-Kasper, the 25-year-old Czech, winner of the Malopolska Tower and third from Sibiu Tour this season, will thus cross a new course in his career from January 1st.

Michal comment: “I am very happy to be racing for Caja Rural-Seguros RGA soon”, he said in a press release. “The team competes in a lot of difficult stage races that are better suited to my characteristics. I think this is the best option for me and I will do my best to show how strong I am. My goals are without a doubt to be an efficient runner for the team and to try to be strong in big races like the Vuelta a Spania or the Tour of the Basque Country. “

The post Michal Schlegel signs with UCI Pro Team Caja Rural appeared first on Pro Cycling Coaching.

Tadej attacked at Coll De Romme from the main bunch on favorites. The data are from the bottom of Coll De Romme to the KOM of Col De Colombiere, 22km long segment, highlighted in red (Col de la Collombière par col de Romme TDF 2021).

Here are the stats:

• Rider name: Tadej Pogacar
• Age 22
• Weight: 66kg
• Distance 22.09km
• 1 015m elevation
• Gradient 4.6% avg
• Speed 24.4km/h
• Duration 54min25s
• Est Power 373w (368w using Strava, 378w using BestBikeSplit)
• 5.65 w/kg
• Current estimated FTP 6 w/kg

Tadej’s performance of 5.65 w/kg for almost an hour is an incredible performance. Keep in mind that Tadej have already done 7 hard stages, and completed 110km before performing this effort.

Tadej is dominant in at least 3 aspects that were needed for this kind of performance. This includes the ability to recover from day to day, threshold power (based on this effort is estimated to be 400watts = 6 w/kg. FYI World-Class FTP starts at 5.8w/kg ), and high fatigue resistance (power drop-off after x time of riding).

The post Data Analysis of Pogacar’s winning attack at Tour de France 2021, Stage 8 appeared first on Pro Cycling Coaching.

Two-time Paralympian Alicia Dana (Putney, Vermont) was named to her third Paralympic team and will look to top the podium in the women’s WH3 class after taking silver in the road time trial in Rio. 

Alicia is our first coached para-athlete and we’ll do our best to make sure Alicia has a world-class preparation as any of our athletes!

Official announcement here:
https://www.teamusa.org/USParaCycling/Features/2021/June/20/US-Paralympics-Cycling-Announces-14-Member-Team-for-Paralympic-Games?fbclid=IwAR0UI9XMkcaz6ZPiZQAHAwfGqL1o3IQlZ-WmopE8T1UsRsD5WXHFKvh3XaI

The post Our athlete Alicia Dana nominated to Paralympics Games appeared first on Pro Cycling Coaching.

Ahlam is one of the few cyclists under the coaching program in the middle east and we are proud to have another national champion!

References:

https://www.arabnews.com/node/1862761/sport

The post Ahlam Zaid becomes Saudi National Champion appeared first on Pro Cycling Coaching.

Data Analysis

Paris Roubaix 2018 Analysis with Silvan Dillier

How strong you need to be to ride one of the hardest cycling races in the world? We got the data from Silvan Dillier (finished 2nd in Paris Roubaix 2018) and analysed the entire race. Here is the rare access behind the scenes.

Special thanks to Silvan Dillier, who shared the data with us.

The post Data Analysis Paris Roubaix 2018 with Silvan Dillier appeared first on Pro Cycling Coaching.

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