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The road to a strong cycling season - Testing, training, and challenges for AG Insurance - Soudal
The start of a new cycling season requires precise preparation and evaluation of the physical and mental condition of the riders. Michiel Stockman and Martijn Kusters, both trainers at AG Insurance - Soudal, outline the pre-season approach, focusing on physical tests, individual training programs, and the specific challenges for U23 riders.
Physical tests and measurements - The foundation for targeted training
The new season at AG Insurance - Soudal begins with comprehensive physical tests that provide an accurate view of each rider’s condition and needs. Michiel explains, “We use the Lamba minimal lactate protocol based on lactate and gas analysis. This test, conducted at Bakala, gives us a complete physiological profile that allows us to set training zones. This enables very targeted winter training.”
Martijn adds that other measurements are also crucial. “During the team days, we start with extensive discussions among the performance staff: the sports directors, coach, doctor, and, if necessary, a dietitian or mental coach,” he says. “The riders undergo a physiological screening, and new team members also receive a bike fitting. This year, we conducted aero-tests at the Zolder velodrome to make the riders as aerodynamic as possible.”
In December, additional tests are conducted to assess progress and physical condition. “Riders receive a DXA scan to measure bone density, and we repeat effort tests for both the WorldTour and Devo teams. This gives us insight into how they’re doing after four to six weeks of training preparation,” Martijn explains. “During the December training camp, we also conduct medical check-ups and optimize bike positions as needed.”
From test to training program - An individualized approach
The results of these physical tests form the basis of a tailored training program for each rider. Michiel emphasizes that the results of these end-of-year tests are used at the start of winter preparation to set personal training zones. “These tests serve as a baseline, allowing us to track progress in specific areas later in the preparation,” he explains.
Martijn adds the importance of tailoring training to the needs of each rider: “With the data from the initial tests, we can apply targeted stimuli in training. These results help us set the training zones and fine-tune our program in the first weeks of preparation.”
In addition to physical tests, both trainers emphasize the importance of the entire performance team at AG Insurance - Soudal. “We are in constant communication to support each rider in all areas: medical, nutrition, injury prevention, and conditioning aspects. The collaboration between these factors ensures a holistic approach. Feedback from training is regularly discussed, and adjustments are made immediately to ensure riders develop as well as possible for the new season.”
Benchmarks and minimum requirements for a strong start
Preparing for a cycling season requires careful build-up, with training volume remaining a key parameter for progress. “The hours riders spend in the saddle are crucial,” says Michiel. “There are no shortcuts: volume needs to be built up gradually and, above all, consistently to achieve the desired progress.”
Martijn adds that, thanks to his academic background and years of experience, he has developed clear benchmarks for rider preparation. “Over the years, I’ve built an extensive database with values and performance criteria essential during the preparation months,” he says. “For the tests in December, January, and February, we know exactly what boxes need to be ticked to build a solid foundation for the season. This database has only grown over time, giving us a clear understanding of the benchmarks that must be met, both in the off-season and during the cycling season itself.”
From a physiological standpoint, a few key benchmarks are used, such as wattages and watts per kilogram. However, Michiel notes that these values are not everything: “In cycling, there are many different profiles and race situations where riders with varied power profiles can excel. A powerful sprinter, for example, has a different profile than a climber or a time trialist. Power is only one piece of the puzzle; technical and tactical skills play an equally important role.”
This diverse nature of cycling means there’s no “one-size-fits-all” approach, and each rider’s specific role and strengths within the team are given careful attention.
Specific challenges for U23 riders
An important aspect of preparation is the approach for U23 riders, who face different challenges than the elite. Martijn explains, “Many U23 riders are just coming out of the junior category, and for many, everything is still new. Additionally, nearly all U23 riders are studying alongside their cycling career, which requires balance. For sustainable development, we must continuously seek the right balance between training, studies, and rest.”
Michiel adds that the extra time and flexibility available to elite riders is often not possible for younger riders. “Elite riders can focus fully on the sport and have more room for rest. U23 riders sometimes have to juggle everything to maintain balance, especially when school or work adds stress. When fatigue or stress from school builds up, it’s important to hit the brakes in time to prevent illness or overuse.”
This balance requires a careful approach that prioritizes the mental and physical health of the riders. Michiel stresses the importance of this: “The athlete’s well-being is our foundation for a strong season. A healthy rider can perform sustainably, and we adjust training as needed to ensure they don’t burn out.”
A holistic approach - The interplay of all factors
At AG Insurance - Soudal, performance is approached as the result of various factors that must be carefully aligned. Michiel explains, “We like to approach performance as the sum of many components that, just like a puzzle, need to fit together seamlessly. I’m talking about nutrition, rest, sleep, mental health, equipment, hygiene, and much more. Consistency in training is the main goal, and we can only achieve this by preventing illness or fatigue.”
To actively involve riders in this, the trainers use reflective exercises. “We encourage riders to think about the impact of, for example, nutrition on their training quality and recovery,” he explains. “If they understand these connections better, they can more easily put setbacks into perspective and improve their performance. This awareness contributes to the athlete’s well-being, which undoubtedly benefits their performance.”
Michiel further emphasizes, “A happy athlete is often a healthy athlete. A solid foundation in all facets – physical, mental, and emotional – ensures we can begin training optimally and deliver sustainable performance.”