The LIFE and INCOME of a Professional cyclist (w/ Ryan Gibbons)
Aug 31, 2023
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Ryan Gibbons, a professional cyclist from South Africa, discusses the challenges, rewards, and dietary aspects of being a pro cyclist. He shares insights on inclusivity, doping, bike technology, and the mental and physical grind of the sport. The pay discrepancy between winners and domestiques, as well as sponsorship and finances in professional cycling, are also explored. Additionally, the disappointment of not being selected for the Tour de France and extreme measures taken for recovery and conditioning are discussed.
The intense carbohydrate intake of professional cyclists during rides, equivalent to four Coca-Colas per hour.
The hardships and sacrifices faced by professional cyclists, including being away from family and dealing with mental and physical challenges.
The discipline and dedication required as a professional cyclist, with year-to-year contracts and the constant pressure to perform well to secure positions.
Deep dives
Becoming a Professional Cyclist
Ryan Gibbons shares his journey of becoming a professional cyclist. He started his pro career at the age of 21 and was initially unaware of the possibility of getting paid for riding a bike. He discusses the sacrifices and suffering that come with the dream of being a pro cyclist.
The Training and Nutrition of a Pro Cyclist
Ryan Gibbons provides insights into the grueling training regime of a professional cyclist. He talks about the importance of building a strong base through long, steady miles and the intensity of specific training sessions. He also discusses the significant carbohydrate intake required during rides, consuming the equivalent of four Coca-Cola's per hour.
The Challenges and Rewards of Professional Cycling
Ryan Gibbons highlights the hardships and sacrifices of professional cycling, including being away from family and the mental and physical challenges faced on a daily basis. Despite the difficulties, he appreciates the opportunities and amazing experiences that come with being a professional cyclist. He also mentions the potential career opportunities after retiring, such as coaching or working in the cycling industry.
The Demands and Challenges of Professional Cycling
Being a professional cyclist requires intense discipline and dedication. With year-to-year contracts, riders constantly face the pressure of performing well to secure their positions. The sport has become more monitored to prevent doping, with stringent testing and whereabouts programs. The advancements in technology and bikes have also contributed to improved performance. Coaches now tailor the training approach to each rider's body type and genetics. The physical and mental grind of training and competing, along with the fear of regret, drive professionals to endure and push themselves to excel.
Identity and Future Beyond Cycling
One challenge for professional riders is their sense of identity tied to the sport. They receive admiration and acclaim, but that can disappear upon retirement. Post-cycling options vary, and leveraging the connections and knowledge gained from the sport can be crucial. Building a personal brand and engaging in social media can provide a hedge for the future. However, the obligation and monitoring associated with being a professional rider can hinder the freedom to express oneself authentically. Despite the commitment and obligations, many riders still find joy and passion in the sport, even if it comes with sacrifices.
In today’s episode, I talk to professional cyclist, Ryan Gibbons.
Ryan is a 29-year-old National Champion cyclist from South Africa, competing right now with the UAE Emirates Team.
His pro career started when he was 21, but he didn’t even know you could get paid for riding a bike at the time!! He took his chance to go pro because it paid basically the same as a good corporate job in South Africa at the time, and how he’s raced all around the world in competitions like the Tour de France and the Olympics.
Check out Ryan on Instagram and Twitter @RyanGibbons23, and you can even follow his bike rides on Strava @RyanGibbons.
If you’ve ever wanted to learn about the not-so-glamorous life of a pro cyclist, you’ll love this episode.
In this conversation, you’ll enjoy 3 BIG things:
- Why he consumes the sugar equivalent of 4 Coca-Colas per HOUR (!!!)
- The one thing he WON’T do to become a better cyclist
- And the KEY difference that separates amateur and pro cyclists
Enjoy those 3 things… plus a bunch more ear nuggets along the way.
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