Training
All the advice and insight you need to improve your riding, enhance your performance or simply get into better shape with training.
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Five free fitness features on Garmin Connect that cyclists should be taking advantage of
Here’s how to make the most of the training software which comes free with Garmin’s cycling computers and smartwatches
By Andy Turner Last updated
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Ask a coach: ‘Are there any actual fitness benefits to doing winter miles on a heavier bike?’
The answer depends on your summer goals and how you like to train – there’s more to it than just a binary yes or no
By James Spragg Last updated
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Winter bikes: do you really need one?
We investigate whether a dedicated bike for the colder season is a necessity or a luxury, and ask do you really need a winter bike?
By Luke Friend Last updated
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FTP or Critical Power – which is the best cycling fitness test?
Is it time to ditch the traditional FTP test in favour of the more scientifically advanced Critical Power? Coach Tom Bell puts theory into practice on two unwitting CW staffers
By Tom Bell Last updated
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Riding with friends is a great way to enjoy long winter miles – here's the lowdown on cycling in a group
Speeding along in a group is efficient and enjoyable, but there are a few basics you need to know about before you get stuck in
By Alex Ballinger Published
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In need of riding inspiration this winter? Here are 16 ways to keep your motivation high while the temperatures are low
As chilly breezes replace the warm summer air, the inclination to ride naturally begins to ebb. Here are 16 ways to approach winter with more enthusiasm
By Vicky Ware Published
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Ask a coach: ‘If I can’t go on a bike ride, is it worth going running instead?’
Whether it’s a busy work/life schedule, a trip away from home or the dark winter evenings, there’s a host of reasons why fitting in a ride might be a struggle – but how good an alternative is running, really?
By James Spragg Published
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Strength training for cyclists: do the gains really justify the time?
Find out if strength training for cyclists will benefit your cycling performance. Discover which exercises to do, how to build your strength training program and common mistakes to avoid
By Hannah Reynolds Published
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Zwift racing vs base building: which is the best way to build fitness through fall and winter?
Is continual Zwift racing a safe and effective way to build fitness over the colder months?
By Vicky Ware Last updated
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Rollers vs indoor bike trainers: which is best for you?
Indoor bike trainers might get the most attention – but don't underestimate a humble set of rollers, here's why...
By Michelle Arthurs-Brennan Published
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Cross training for cycling: running, weights, dance - the pros are doing it and so can you
Many of the world’s best cyclists are also very accomplished at other activities – and perhaps it’s no coincidence. Dr Josephine Perry lays out a smorgasbord of sideline interests to complement your riding
By Josephine Perry Published
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Five textbook mistakes to avoid when indoor training
Winter's fast approaching, so you will probably be reacquainted with your indoor bike trainer: here are the top five no-nos
By Simon Schofield Published
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Want to go long? Here's how to build your cycling endurance effectively
We spoke to Hunter Allen, co-author of training bible, 𝘛𝘳𝘢𝘪𝘯𝘪𝘯𝘨 𝘢𝘯𝘥 𝘙𝘢𝘤𝘪𝘯𝘨 𝘸𝘪𝘵𝘩 𝘢 𝘗𝘰𝘸𝘦𝘳 𝘔𝘦𝘵𝘦𝘳, on how to grow your engine
By Michelle Arthurs-Brennan Published
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Are you overtraining? Signs to look out for and how to avoid it
It's natural to think that racking up endless miles will be beneficial to your cycling, but it's all too easy to overdo it and miss out on recovery…
By Tom Bell Published
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Ask a coach: 'Are some methods of calculating FTP more reliable than others?'
From training to time trials, an accurate estimate is vital for getting the best out of yourself
By James Spragg Last updated
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All the essentials to get started cycling indoors (on a budget – or not)
Indoor cycling is a fast, efficient way to get fit, here is all you need to get started and beyond
By Luke Friend Published
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Nine ways to make your turbo sessions more enjoyable
Training indoors is often a necessary evil during the winter, but it doesn't have to be a bad experience
By Paul Norman Published
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Big Fitness Project: Danny gets lab-tested; Julia hits a Covid hurdle; and it's Steve's final chance to go sub-20
Life often upsets the best-laid plans, as our Project participants found out last month
By David Bradford Published
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Cycling workout of the week #7: Pick ’n’ Mix - a little bit, and not too much, of everything [1hr 1 min]
Do if… you want a session to help boost your VO2max while keeping the efforts fun and varied
By Andy Turner Last updated
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Cycling workout of the week #5: Under/Overs – improve your ability to recover while still pushing the pace [59 mins]
Do if…you want to improve your threshold power and your capacity to recover at higher intensities
By Andy Turner Last updated
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Are you a slave to your power meter? Here's what the experts say about training on both power and feel
With even some pro teams cautioning against an over-reliance on power meters, Dr Josie Perry makes the case for staying in touch with your winning instincts
By Josephine Perry Published
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Ask a coach: ‘Does maximal heart rate really matter in terms of riding performance?’
Is a higher or lower maximum heart rate better? Or is there even any point in comparing?
By James Spragg Published
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Home workout – no gym fees: Try these strengthening exercises for cyclists to stay injury free
Riding your bike without supplementing the pedal strokes with strength and conditioning training is a sure-fire route to injury. Here’s how to bulletproof your body on just one hour a week
By David Bradford Published
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Cycling workout of the week #3: MAP (Maximal Aerobic Power) efforts - Boost your speed on steep climbs [1hr 5 mins]
Do if…you want to build your maximal aerobic engine to stay with your mates on four to six minute climbs
By Andy Turner Last updated
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Could you improve your cornering? Here's how to tackle bends quickly and safely on a road bike
Cornering safely at speed is an essential skill for all cyclists. We talk you through the best techniques to maintain speed, and stay upright
By Anna Marie Hughes Published
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Cycling Weekly Big Fitness Project: Steve chases club TT glory, Danny gets carb-schooled, and Julia goes long in Sweden
It's been a busy month for our trio of ambitious amateurs, Steve, Danny and Julia – TT racing, an epic sportive and a fuelling masterclass
By David Bradford Published
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Ask a coach: 'I'm stuck in a training rut, how can I start improving again?'
Putting in the time on the bike but not getting anywhere is incredibly frustrating, we explain how to escape this unsatisfying fitness stalemate and go on to achieve your best
By James Spragg Last updated
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Cycling workout of the week #2: Glycolytic Capacity Efforts - Short hills? Long sprints? Same session. [1hr 3 mins]
Do if… you love short, sharp and steep hills (–or if they’re your nemesis), plus it’s also good training for long, drawn-out sprints
By Andy Turner Last updated
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Cycling workout of the week #1: 20/40s - Just how hard can 20 sec intervals be? [50 mins]
Do if… you’re looking to boost your high-end power – whether that’s for races, Strava segments or as a HIIT-style workout
By Andy Turner Last updated