How much training on the road do track sprinters do for cycling?

Question

How much mileage do they put in on the road? Can you be a good track cyclist and just train on the track with only your track bike? I find riding for long periods on the road boring but I'm curious about what sprinting on the track would be like. I lift weights for my legs so I think I may have more power than a normal beginner. My endurance is really bad though.

Answer 1

I depends what you mean by track. I assume you mean 1 k sprint since it's the shortest track race requiring the most power.

Even sprinters need great fitness (for training itself as well as races) so longer rides are part of their training too. How much training is dependent on what level of racing you're referring to. Obviously pros are riding daily for many hours. A serious club rider will likely train 5 days a week for several hours. Most of your training time is not on your track bike and weight training can be a part of your schedule. I don't know the breakdown of a sprinter's training but I'd guess 20-30% is steady road riding.

Getting into track requires a track (duh) and the best way to get into it is joining a bike club. Riding with others removes the bordom and you need the coaching available in a club.

If you're lucky enough to live near a velodrome give it a go.

Answer 2

I raced track for several years and used to specialize in the kilo and match sprint. From my experience, riding on the road is essential for track racing. Not only do you need to be fast, but you need overall good fitness utilizes the core muscle group for cycling. You can only develop this with miles on the road.

The other thing to stress is that track riding involves a lot of bike handling skill. This technique is only progressed with time on the bike. From my experience, I cannot remember a single track racer who did not ride on the road and do criterium racing as well.

Answer 3

you need strength endurance for a track racer
being able to go fast at one point is great
but i know people able to go 40 atleast on a track and they dont take first
road riding is great fun if you go with people
or have a goal in your training
dont forget about nutrition and sleep and all the little stuff