It’s only normal to feel nervous before an event, especially dreading mechanical issues when you’ve put in so much hard work. But by being organised, trained and positive, you can conquer the nerves.
Make sure you’ve eliminated all the potential pre-race issues that you can to be race ready. Here’s what you can do:
• Attend mechanical / technical talks
• Pack the day before
• Make sure your bike is serviced and clean
• Make sure your nutrition is organised
• Check the weather
• Stay positive and adaptable
If you’re feeling nervous before a race, take the time to gather your thoughts. That could mean some stretching, or even meditation to focus your mind before the start of any event. The downward facing dog stretch won’t only calm you down, it’ll loosen up your hamstrings – often one of the tightest muscles in cyclists and it’s one of the easiest ways to increase power-output.
By being organised and prepared, you’ll avoid feeling rushed and nervous before any event. Make sure you’re doing all that you can to have your best race yet.
If you engage in these exercises, you agree that you do so at your own risk and assume all
risk of injury to yourself.