Annual Performance Evaluation in Cycling

The Annual Performance Evaluation in cycling, when paired with an athlete’s self-evaluation is a crucial tool for identifying areas of needed improvement, tracking progress, improving performance durability, advancing results, and achieving personal milestones. By regularly evaluating their performance, athletes can gain a deep understanding of their current fitness level, strengths and weaknesses, and areas where they can make significant gains. This information can then be used to develop a personalized training plan that is tailored to your individual goals.

One of the key benefits of an annual performance evaluation is that it can help riders to improve their FTP (Functional Threshold Power). By regularly evaluating and tracking their FTP, you and your coach can identify trends, make adjustments to your training as needed, and track your progress over time.

Another important benefit of an annual performance evaluation is that it can help you to improve your durability. Durability refers to the ability to withstand the demands of cycling training and competition/events  while minimizing performance loss throughout the event and over time. 

Annual performance evaluations can also be used to track results and personal milestones. By comparing your current performance to their previous results, you can quantify your progress and set realistic goals for the future. Additionally, tracking personal milestones, such as completing a certain distance or climbing a certain hill (Strava KOM), can be a motivating factor to help you stay on track with your goals.

Professional Coaches and Performance Advisors help can greatly enhance the annual performance evaluation process. Experienced coaches can provide valuable insights into your performance and develop a personalized training plan that is tailored to your individual goals and needs. Additionally, coaches provide support and motivation throughout the training process to keep you on track with your goals.

Here are some specific examples of how cyclists can use the results of their annual performance evaluation to improve their FTP, durability, results, and personal milestones:

• A rider who is preparing for a race can use the results of their evaluation to adjust their training plan in the weeks/ months leading up to the race. For example, coaches will understand the physical and emotional requirements of an athlete who chooses to undertake a major event like Unbound Gravel, Copper Triangle, Redlands Classic, Tulsa Tough or the Tour of Turkey.
• An athlete who is new to the sport can use the results of their evaluation to set realistic goals for the upcoming season. For example, if the cyclist has a low FTP, they may set a goal of increasing their FTP by a certain percentage by the end of the year.
• An athlete who is returning from an injury can use the results of their evaluation to track their recovery and make sure that they are safe to return to training and competition. For example, if the rider’s FTP has decreased due to their injury, they may need to gradually increase the intensity of their training sessions as they recover. Likewise if the athlete has activity restrictions the coach will collaborate with the physical therapist to create a personalized training plan for that athlete.

Overall, an annual performance evaluation is an essential tool for riders of all levels. By regularly evaluating their performance, you can identify areas for improvement, track progress, enhance durability, improve results, and reach new personal milestones. Professional coaches can further enhance this process by providing you with the support, guidance, and expertise needed to achieve your next goals.