G’s coach Conor Taylor on the evolution of training, looking after G, and the biggest changes in cycling
Mar 12, 2024
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G's coach Conor Taylor discusses the evolution of training in cycling, nutrition changes, and insights for cyclists. Exciting end-of-series plans teased. New partner announced. Training methods, coaching evolution, challenges for young cyclists, and importance of rest and recovery covered in chapters.
Adapt training methods to suit individual athletes' responses and preferences for optimal performance.
Building trust and rapport between coach and athlete enhances motivation and goal achievement.
Coaches play a crucial role in educating young athletes on training principles for performance enhancement.
Deep dives
coaching Approach and Philosophy
Connor discusses the importance of having a strong coaching philosophy and adapting training approaches for each individual athlete based on their response to different stimuli. He emphasizes the need for flexibility and individualizing training sessions to suit each rider's needs and preferences. Connor also touches on the significance of managing distractions and external influences to optimize performance.
Importance of Trust and Relationship with Coach
G shares the significance of trust and belief in a coaching relationship, highlighting how personal rapport can enhance motivation and commitment to training. He mentions how a positive relationship with a coach can lead to improved performance and a collaborative approach to achieving goals. G also stresses the impact of having meaningful goals and a clear plan in driving motivation.
Balancing Coaching and Life Guidance
Connor acknowledges the role of a coach extending beyond physical training, especially with younger riders, where life guidance becomes essential in managing external pressures and distractions. He emphasizes the delicate balance between providing support, allowing for mistakes, and facilitating the learning process for young cyclists transitioning into professional careers.
Importance of Understanding Training Principles
Young athletes benefit from understanding training principles as it enhances their performance and overall knowledge of exercise physiology. By questioning and comprehending their training routines, they can optimize their development and readiness for competitions. Coaches play a crucial role in educating athletes about the reasons behind specific training methods and their intended outcomes. This approach fosters a deeper engagement with training processes and cultivates a growth mindset among athletes.
Strategic Approach to Rider Preparation for Competitions
Preparing cyclists for high-level competitions like the Tour de France involves a strategic approach based on specific physical requirements and race objectives. Coaches assess the physical capabilities needed to support team leaders in demanding races and tailor training programs accordingly. The emphasis on rest and recovery is highlighted as a vital component for structural changes in muscles and performance improvements. Team selections for competition spots involve evaluating various factors beyond pure physical performance, such as technical skills and group dynamics, to ensure the best team composition.
G had to be on best behaviour for this week’s guest - because it’s the man who sets him his training day in, day out!
Conor Taylor has been working with G for more than two years now and has played a major role in G’s longevity at the top of the sport, helping him to that incredible second place at the Giro last year, and Tour podium finish in 2022.
The thinking behind cycling training and the nutrition to support it has changed beyond all recognition in recent years, with G himself happy to admit that he’s had to adapt with the times to stay relevant. Conor came to the GTCC with plenty of fascinating insights for our GTCC members - there should be something for every cyclist in this episode.
In other news, G, Tom and Producer George have been working on something very exciting to end the series - so get ready for that one, if it comes off. We shall see.
We’ll see you soon.
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