We had an insightful chat with the Voice of the Bellville velodrome, Coen Pretorius. We asked him about his journey from novice road cyclist to national track champion. We talked about his role as MC and touch on schools MTB and track cycling.
School MTB and track cycling – Is there opportunity to connect?
Amongst our discussions it became clear that school mountain biking (MTB) and track cycling can indeed complement each other. Here’s how they can work together to enhance a cyclist’s skills:
- Power and Start Techniques: Track cycling, with its focus on explosive power and quick starts, can significantly improve a mountain biker’s ability to launch effectively at the beginning of a race. As mentioned in the transcript, riders like Bianca Herbst have shown improved starts in MTB events after training on the track.
- Endurance and Stamina: While track cycling emphasizes short bursts of speed, it also builds overall endurance, which is beneficial for the longer, more sustained efforts required in mountain biking.
- Technical Skills: The precision and bike handling skills developed on the track can translate to better control and maneuverability on the varied terrains of mountain biking.
- Mental Toughness: Both disciplines require a high level of mental focus and resilience. The strategic thinking and quick decision-making in track cycling can enhance a rider’s ability to navigate the challenges of MTB courses.
- Cross-Training Benefits: Engaging in both sports allows young athletes to develop a well-rounded skill set, reducing the risk of burnout and overuse injuries by varying their training routines.
By participating in both school MTB and track cycling, young riders can enjoy a more comprehensive development of their cycling abilities, benefiting from the unique strengths each discipline offers.
