Anaerobic training

A cyclocross training plan is a structured programme that develops the endurance, repeated high-intensity efforts, technical bike handling, strength and recovery needed to race cyclocross well. Unlike a standard road cycling plan, it prepares you to accelerate out of corners, tackle obstacles, ride under fatigue and make good decisions when everything feels slightly chaotic.

Physical training is a fundamental part of any athlete, and in the case of cycling, it is essential to improve performance and achieve desired goals. In this article, we will explore the importance of maintaining a balance between aerobic and anaerobic training, and how this can benefit your overall cycling performance.

Every moderately advanced cyclist has probably encountered the terms FTP or anaerobic threshold (AT). If they haven't already, they are likely to receive a question from another cyclist in the near future: "What's your FTP?" or read about their favourite athlete undergoing threshold or FTP training. These two parameters appear frequently in the vocabulary of endurance athletes, yet they are often insufficiently understood. If you ask your cycling buddy why they apply intervals at the FTP or AT level, they might not be able to answer. In this article, I will try to explain these two concepts in understandable terms and from a sports science perspective.