When training does not result in the desired and expected results, riders start to make up reasons why they have stopped improving.
As I explained in the first part of How to deal with training vacuum – Part one‘ the rider is looking for someone or something to blame.
But often it is not someone’s or something’s fault. Instead the rider has reached a plateau for his talent with the current amount of training. And that is a very natural progression. When you are good at something it takes longer to improve to a higher level.
Recognize when you are in a training vacuum
If you do regular tests you will notice when you have done a couple of tests with no progression. That is sign that tells you that it is time to reconsider your training situation.
Back to basics – Proper training, nutrition and recovery
This is old news, but still three very essential topics. These are the basics in good cycling training and should never be forgotten.
Write a training diary
Write down every training session you do. This is a very useful tool when done correctly and seriously. It makes it easier for you (or your coach) to discover problems.
Do you train intervals too often, is your amount of training as you thought it should be and when was the last time you felt that you had good legs?
These questions are easy to answer if you have a training diary.
Read your training diary
Surprisingly, many riders write a training diary because they are told to from their coach, but they do not read it.
I can only recommend that you spend some time reading your old diaries. You will definitely learn how consistent your training is. As I have mentioned before, it is a very useful tool, when you evaluate performance.
Discuss performance with a coach
Four eyes see more than only two. It is good to have a coach who can come with an objective view on your situation. Again, start with the basic principles and ask your coach if there is something in the basic principles you can improve. That might open up your eyes, if you believe you do things as good as possible. Maybe there is room for improvements – even in the basic stuff!