I recently read a book „The Cyclist’s Training Bible“ by Joe Friel.
The book is of course about cyclists, but I am sure that the principles of training athletes in the book can also be used in brazilian jiu-jitsu. I will try to retell the main points that still remain in my memory.
Body gains strength and endurance during rest, not training. Because the body starts to turn on the necessary hormones for growth.
You don’t need to look up to others, it’s important to develop your own individual strategy. We all have so many inputs, family, kids, work, stress. All of these have to be taken into account. It’s better to train well once a week than to wear yourself out.
Psychological support is important. It is important that you have an environment that supports you.
A proper diet is the only thing that gives your body energy. Even if you are over 60, with the right diet you can do everything as you did when you were young. Protein is the main building material. Women need to watch their iron level.
Constant muscle work makes them stony. That’s why it’s important to do stretching.
Age certainly matters, but not as much as is commonly believed. Let’s say at the age of 50 there can be even a very decent level of training for international competitions.
It’s important to set the right goals. It is important to distinguish between dreams and goals. Goals must be realistic and achievable. If you train without goals, you can reach some level, but you will not achieve significant success.
Cycling has long been more than just riding a bicycle. Individual indices of endurance, strength, can be achieved with other exercises, for example in the gym.
It is important to avoid monotony to avoid burnout. A plan to avoid burnout should also be included in the overall strategy.
You have to keep a balance: technique – strength – endurance. You should also work on some of these indicators, depending on your goals, because there are competitions where some components are not so significant.
