Training
Ventouro is proud to be the official coaching partner of NZ's premier cycling event the Lake Taupo Cycle Challenge.
Ventouro coaching is for people who want the chance to elevate their performance, with one-on-one personalised coaching from Double Olympian Tim Gudsell & current NZ Road Cycling Champion James Oram.
For the Lake Taupo Cycle Challenge your program can be tailored to any of the events on offer from the Gravel Grind, the MTB Huka Teaser to the 320km Enduro. If you have a goal time we will set the hours required per week to help you achieve this and each training session will have a nutrition plan to match the effort.
If you are a first timer to the event we are also offering event day advice including logistics and strategy on how to use all the knowledge you have gained during your training.
Tim & James bring their in-depth knowledge of strength-conditioning programs, power files, cycling technique and efficiency, physiology and sport psychology. We love to teach and see others grow – and we guarantee you’re in the best hands possible.
Training Programmes and Advice
Event partner Ventouro Coaching have developed valuable programmes and advice for your training in the lead up to the event. Take a look at their programmes and advice in the free downloads below:
Download the 1-week ideal nutrition snapshot
Download the Shimano Round The Lake training programme
Download Independent Traffic Length of the Lake training programme
Download the Enduro training programme
Download the Gravel Grind training programme
Download the Tineli Huka Hundy Training Advice
Whether you are training to complete in a specific time or attempting the likes of the Length of the Lake for the first time, Ventouro Coaching programs are designed to work around your unique lifestyle.
Cycle Training Principles
Some important things to remember are:
PROGRESSION:
Increase your cycle training progressively and follow the basic guidelines of our training programme.
FREQUENCY:
You should be aiming for at least 3 training rides a week.
HILLS:
Make sure you include some hills in your training rides so you are prepared for the hills on event day.
Starting Off
If it’s been a while since you’ve been on a bike, just start slowly! Go around the block a few times, using your gears and ride within your limits. Start with a few hundred metres and progressively increase to a few kilometres. Avoid wet weather until you feel a bit more confident (but always carry a jacket, just in case!)
Bike & Clothing
Any well-maintained bike will do – choosing a bike is like choosing a pair of shoes, it has to be fitted! You will need to get your seat and handlebars adjusted to your size and shape – this will make cycle training much more comfortable.
You don’t need any specific clothing to take part – the most important thing is to be warm and comfortable. Obviously helmets are compulsory and we strongly recommend a high-visibility vest at all times. You should also consider padded bike shorts, a cycling jersey and a light windproof and waterproof jacket (especially for cold, wet conditions). A polyprop undergarment is recommended on cooler days. And sunglasses are great for blocking out the UV rays and protecting your eyes from insects and wind.
Your Bike
You must ensure your bike is roadworthy& safe. Make sure you have it checked & serviced before you come to Taupō.
All 99 Bikes stores offer a free bike check to event entrants.