I Asked A Brain Training Scientist How To Win Races - Here’s What He Said

Dec 29, 2025

Dr. Tommy Wood, a neuroscientist and author specializing in brain health and performance, dives into the crucial link between mental resilience and cycling. He reveals why cognitive recovery is just as important as physical, addressing how constant distractions can lead to cognitive overtraining. Tommy shares practical tips for improving focus, optimizing cognitive skills, and combating modern distractions. He emphasizes transforming idle time into meaningful challenges to enhance overall well-being and skill acquisition for athletes.

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INSIGHT

Brain Health Is Largely Modifiable

Tommy Wood defines brain health as "a brain that does what you want it to when you want it to."
He stresses cognitive function is highly plastic and largely modifiable across life stages.

ADVICE

Use The 3S Stimulus Model

Use a stimulus→recovery→adaptation model for cognitive training just like for physical training.
Prioritize the cognitive stimulus first, then support it with sleep, nutrition and recovery.

ADVICE

Schedule Focus And Recovery

Schedule deep-focus (high-gear) sessions and allow recovery afterwards, especially sleep.
Reserve low-gear tasks for most of the day and avoid middle-gear multitasking where possible.

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In this episode, I sit down with neuroscientist Dr. Tommy Wood to explore how brain health, focus, attention, and recovery directly affect cycling performance. We break down why most athletes are physically well-trained but mentally overworked, how constant stimulation and distraction lead to cognitive overtraining, and why your brain needs recovery just as much as your legs. We also discuss practical ways cyclists can train their brain, build focus, improve decision-making under fatigue, and protect attention in a world full of distractions. If you’re training hard but still feel mentally flat or inconsistent on the bike, this conversation might explain why.

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