Secrets of Track Racing

Carlos Clemente from Clemente Cycles, wrote this story on the secrets of track racing. Read through it and post your comments below on what you think. I feel that Carlos has a great attitude on cycling in general and this article has some great advice. Enjoy!

Secrets of Track Racing

There are many secrets in track racing; the basics are knowledge, attitude, and instinct. The first secret about Track Racing is Knowledge! You must know yourself, your equipment, your opponent, and your environment. Some questions to ask yourself are: What are your strengths and weaknesses? Are you a sprinter, a pursuiter, or a little of both? What gears can you spin forever, and what gears do you use for endurance events? When you are racing, you need to know what type of rider your opponent is. Does he like big gears? Does he have a good jump? Does he have a lot of endurance? You also need to know the track you will be racing on: 400m, 333m, 250m, and the specific characteristics of each track. The answers to these questions will ensure victory.

Secondly, you must possess the proper attitude. Everything must be focused on winning, especially your thoughts and attitude. Regardless of whether you think you are a sprinter or a pursuiter, you must practice on a daily basis. During your training session, focus on mind, body, and soul development. This is very important! During your race, focus on nothing but victory. Rehearse the perfect race in your mind on a daily basis. Do not allow any thoughts other than that individual victory to cloud your mind.

Racing is specific to official sanctioned races, not mock races held during training sessions. Everything should reflect that, especially your attitude. Remember, you do not have any adversaries when you are training and no allies when you are racing. It is you and the course. When racing, relax and focus on the task at hand. WINNING! You must dispose of your opponent as efficiently and quickly as possible.

The last and most important secret of Track Racing is Instinct! Instinct is the primal response that can be conditioned by practice. Instinct ignites the flight or fight stimulus within the body. This increase of adrenaline allows the muscles of the body to exert themselves to their full potential allowing you to get the most work from them. Of course, the only way to get racing instinct is to practice, practice, practice and then when you are done with that practice some more!

From: Carlos Clemente of Clemente Cycles