I have been training with BikeMaxPower and Michael van Staden since late September 2008.  I’ve been cycling for about 12 years now with various levels of “achievements”.  But after a dismal winter in 2008 I have discovered that I am on a “cycling plateau” for quite some time now.  And unless I get new goals and/or focus soon, cycling had become just a burden. 

Like all good stories, this one also has a start and it all started after a visit to BikeMaxPower and Michael for a proper bike set-up.  I have always under estimated the value and science of a proper and correct set-up.  Until now, I have discovered that correct the bike set-up, done with the correct techniques like Michael is doing, has become one of my most valuable assets on the bike.

And then one Monday afternoon after yet another disastrous weekend of cycling we got together for a discussion and I explained to Michael what it is that I would like to achieve over the next few months.  And since my fitness level at that point was basically nowhere, he knew exactly what I needed at this point and the programme that he worked out and I’ve been following since 22^nd September 2008 is a building process towards these goals.  And the result that I have seen in a very short time is truly amazing.   We have been working on my aerobic capacity only and I’m able to continue for much longer and ride much harder as in the past, and all of this happened in such a short time frame. The way my body and mind reacts to the training programme is quite remarkable.  The motivation and encouragement I receive from Michael on a daily basis is such huge contributing factor and with a little dedication I’m trying to follow his programme to the letter. 

My Tuesday interval sessions are fast becoming my favourite training sessions.  When I started the programme about six weeks ago I was only capable of doing 1x 20 min interval @ 170 BPM, I have advanced since to 2x 25 min at that HR up till now. 

I can’t remember when was the last time that I have been this excited about cycling and achieving something with it and yes it’s hard work to get your mind and body into shape, but it is worth every little bit of effort.

A huge thanks to Michael and BikeMaxPower, not just for being a good friend but also since a very young age, being a huge inspiration to me as a cyclist and helping me to achieve something that I know I’m capable to achieve.

All I can say is:  Watch this space!!!

Amanda Siebrits

31 Oct. 08