trainSharp Training Feedback
This year LWCC have partnered with @Trainsharp Cycle Coaching to offer two of our members a full year of subsidised coaching to improve fitness and reach their cycling and racing goals in 2024 and beyond.
Lucky enough to be on the programme this year – Joe Benians and Barry Mitchell. We have a little Q&A with them both, to see how they’ve been getting along with training over the summer and into autumn.
LWCC – What improvements have you seen this year?
BM – Definitely have more endurance and power and find myself able to stay with the faster guys for longer on both club rides and CG’s etc!
LWCC – What were your goals for 2024, and have you reached them?
BM – My goal was really to have more staying power on the Forge rides and also be able to take the front more on those rides to show commitment and not leave it to others to take the wind!
LWCC – What was your last and when is your next event/race?
BM – Last event was the TT of Danehill but I’ve signed up for the Chailey event and looking to improve on last years’ time (that will be a good test).
LWCC – Would you recommend the TS training to others and what advice would you give them?
BM – I’ve really enjoyed the challenge, and I think if you want to REALLY improve then you have to go this route. I’d advise others to really commit from the start as otherwise it can become a tough ask if you’re not improving. Also don’t be afraid of doing lots of Zone 1-2 riding, it’s good for you!
LWCC – What is the hardest thing and what is the best thing about structured training for you?
BM – The hardest thing is doing the rides when you don’t have the time or desire that day as most of the indoor rides are tough and need full commitment, especially on the turbo where there’s no freewheeling! The best thing is when you nail a tough workout, and you know it’s because of the training or when you have a good CG and that gives you confidence to ride fast at the front knowing you can stay there.
Thanks, and good luck with the rest of the programme Barry!
LWCC – What improvements have you seen in your riding/racing this year?
JB – Large increase in aerobic capacity, and small jump in ftp
LWCC – What was your last and when is your next event/race?
JB – Last race was the Geordieman Half Ironman. I relayed it with my partner. I did swim and cycle, she did the run. 93km bike leg came in at 2hr36, which was 25 minutes quicker than I bargained for!
LWCC – What were your goals for 2024 and have you reached them?
JB – Main goal for 2024 was the Geordieman, and I’d say I smashed it. Other goals were to return near the levels I used to ride at, and I’m not far off that.
LWCC – How do you think the training will help you achieve more goals in 2025?
JB – 2024 has given me a large base from which to build upon. I have more multi-sport events lined up for 2025 and maybe a few 10-mile Time Trials to see if I can finally knock the last few seconds off my PB to take it under 20 minutes.
LWCC – Would you recommend the TS training to others and what advice would you give them?
JB – Very much recommend the coaches who are very responsive and willing to adapt training around your life. Don’t be afraid to give feedback if something isn’t working, it’s better to change something early than to try and stick it out and become disheartened
LWCC – What is the hardest thing and what is the best thing about structured training for you?
JB – Finding the time to squeeze it all in. Training for three sports is hard
