Professional cyclists are increasingly turning to running as a cross-training method during the winter season
As the winter season sets in, professional cyclists are finding new ways to stay fit and maintain their endurance. While cycling remains the primary focus, many riders are incorporating running into their training routines. What was once seen as a niche activity for cyclo-cross riders has now become a popular cross-training method for road cyclists as well. Jasper Philipsen, a renowned sprinter from Alpecin-Deceuninck, is the latest addition to the “riders who run” club, showcasing his running prowess with an impressive half marathon effort. This trend is not limited to Philipsen alone, as other notable riders, including Wout van Aert, Tom Pidcock, and even retired cyclist Tom Dumoulin, have also embraced running as a complementary training discipline.
Philipsen’s Impressive Half Marathon Run
Jasper Philipsen, known for his sprinting abilities, recently completed a remarkable 22.24km run, equivalent to a half marathon. The Belgian finished the run in an impressive time of one hour and 45 minutes, maintaining a pace of 4:45 minutes per kilometer. Philipsen’s dedication to running has garnered attention from his teammates, with Mathieu van der Poel suggesting the inclusion of running in their upcoming winter training camp.
The Growing Trend Among Pro Cyclists
Philipsen’s running exploits are part of a larger trend among professional cyclists who recognize the benefits of incorporating running into their training plans. Cameron Wurf, a triathlete from Ineos Grenadiers, is a prime example, having completed a half marathon in just 1 hour and 26 minutes after finishing Paris-Roubaix earlier this year. Endurance athletes like cyclists often find running to be a natural extension of their training regimen, and the results are impressive.
Notable Runners in the Peloton
Wout van Aert and Tom Pidcock, two prominent figures in the world of professional cycling, have also embraced running as a supplementary training activity. Their willingness to diversify their training routines demonstrates the value they see in cross-training. Additionally, riders such as Michał Kwiatkowski and Freddy Ovett have even taken on full marathons, further highlighting the growing popularity of running within the peloton.
Impressive Times and New Challenges
Professional cyclists are not just participating in casual runs; they are setting remarkable times over shorter distances as well. Leo Hayter, a rider from Ineos Grenadiers, recently completed a 10km run in just 35 minutes, showcasing his speed and endurance. Laurence Pithie of Groupama-FDJ achieved a remarkable 5km Parkrun time of 17:19, maintaining an astonishing pace of 3:27 per kilometer. These achievements illustrate the exceptional athletic capabilities of cyclists when they transition to running.
Running Beyond Retirement
Even after retiring from professional cycling, athletes like Tom Dumoulin continue to pursue running as a means of staying fit. Dumoulin has recently been training with Dutch Olympic medallist Sifan Hassan, further pushing his running capabilities. With his half-marathon time of 1:10, Dumoulin proves that running remains a passion even outside the realm of competitive cycling.
Conclusion:
The integration of running into the training routines of professional cyclists is a growing trend that showcases the versatility and adaptability of these athletes. From sprinters like Jasper Philipsen to all-rounders like Wout van Aert and Tom Pidcock, the benefits of running are evident. The impressive times set by riders over shorter distances and the participation in full marathons demonstrate their commitment to maintaining peak fitness throughout the year. As the winter season progresses, it will be fascinating to see how running continues to shape the training methods and performance of professional cyclists.
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