From sprinters to climbers, professional cyclists are turning to running as a valuable cross-training method during the winter months.
As the winter season rolls in, professional cyclists are not only putting in long hours on the bike but also incorporating running into their training routines. Running provides an additional avenue for distance and endurance training, with even road cyclists, including sprinters and climbers, recognizing the benefits of this popular cross-training method. Jasper Philipsen, a prominent figure in the peloton, recently showcased his running prowess by completing a remarkable half marathon effort. This trend of cyclists embracing running as part of their training regimen is gaining momentum, with numerous riders achieving impressive times and distances on foot.
The Rise of Running in Cycling Training
Running has become an integral part of the training routines of professional cyclists, complementing their cycling efforts. While it is essential for cyclo-cross riders who frequently dismount during races, road cyclists are also recognizing the advantages of incorporating running into their training plans. The versatility and endurance required in cycling make running a natural fit for these athletes.
Jasper Philipsen’s Half Marathon Feat
Jasper Philipsen, a member of the Alpecin-Deceuninck team, recently completed a challenging 22.24km run, equivalent to a half marathon. His impressive finish time of one hour and 45 minutes, averaging a pace of 4:45 minutes per kilometer, demonstrates his running prowess. Philipsen’s dedication to running has not gone unnoticed, with his teammate Mathieu van der Poel expressing interest in joining him during their upcoming winter camp.
Notable Cyclists Embracing Running
Jasper Philipsen is not alone in his pursuit of running as a cross-training method. Triathlete Cameron Wurf, a member of the Ineos Grenadiers team, famously completed a half marathon in 1:26 right after finishing Paris-Roubaix earlier this year. Other prominent cyclists, such as Wout van Aert (Jumbo-Visma) and Tom Pidcock (Ineos Grenadiers), have also incorporated running into their training routines during the season.
Impressive Running Times and Distances
Cyclists have been setting remarkable times and distances in their running endeavors. Leo Hayter of Ineos Grenadiers completed a 10km run in just 35 minutes, showcasing his speed and endurance. Laurence Pithie from Groupama-FDJ achieved an impressive 17:19 5km Parkrun, averaging a remarkable pace of 3:27 per kilometer. These achievements highlight the cyclists’ ability to excel in running, even over shorter distances.
Running Beyond Retirement
Even retired cyclists are embracing running as a means of staying active and challenging themselves. Tom Dumoulin, who recently retired from professional cycling, has been focusing on his running pursuits. He recently trained with Dutch Olympic medallist Sifan Hassan, indicating his commitment to improving his running performance. With his dedication, Dumoulin’s impressive half marathon time of 1:10 may soon be surpassed.
Conclusion: The incorporation of running into the training routines of professional cyclists is gaining traction, with notable riders like Jasper Philipsen showcasing their running abilities. Running provides an additional avenue for endurance training and complements the physical demands of cycling. The impressive times and distances achieved by cyclists in their running pursuits highlight their versatility and athleticism. As cycling continues to evolve, the integration of running as a cross-training method offers cyclists an opportunity to further enhance their performance and overall fitness.
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