Our Coaching Philosophy

Why Train or Coach any other way?

We have created a training philosophy and framework that allows our athletes and coaches to achieve the best results. It promotes “smart” decisions, appropriate training and reachable goals. Why spend valuable time and money guessing and wondering if your training plan is working. All good plans will change and mature over time. It is important to start out right and have the tools and knowledge to make the necessary adjustments along the way. This is the foundation of our approach.

Athlete Assessment
Lifestyle and History

The first step is understanding the factors that will gauge an athlete’s ability to train and perform. These include health history, injuries, eating habits, training habits, travel schedule and more. The assessment is key in determining what the athlete has to offer his or her training effort and what may present a initial challenge or limitation.

Biomechanics
Musculoskeletal Structure

Next we perform a complete bike fit which includes measuring the body and performing strength and flexibility testing. The athlete is instructed in proper position and muscle mechanics to optimize comfort and performance. Understanding the strengths and weaknesses of the physical structure of the body will allow a coach to prescribe the necessary strength training and level of workload the althlete can handle.

VO2 / Power Testing
The Engine

We then move on to “The Engine”. What is the potential of the athlete’s cardiovascular and respiratory systems? How does this equate to their power output and performance. This step allows the coach to setup appropriate target training zones and monitor the intensity levels of each workout.

Target Goals
Events and Focus

Every athlete has a goal or challenge they want to conquer. It can be anything from achieving a higher level of fitness to completing a challenging charity ride to competing in triathlons or other competitive events. The information obtained through the assessment, biomechanics and testing process allow us to put these goals into perspective to ensure success.

Training Plan
The Roadmap

Once all of the information is put together, a comprehensive training plan can be created. A plan that is realistic, challenging and focused on an achievable goal.

Now the Work Begins
The Evolution of Training

Training is a learning and iterative process that can only be perfected over time. Each athlete responds differently to the effects of training. The Stage5 Cycling coaching philosophy gives the athlete and coach a solid platform to launch and mature a successful training program.

The question is…

Why would you want to train or coach any other way?