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“Things have changed a lot throughout the pandemic not necessarily in the way that I prepare but, in the places I am preparing and the tools that I'm using.”
– Kate Courtney, 2019 World Cup Champion
Home Gym
With travel restrictions still largely in place and facilities closed due to the global pandemic, it's fair to say that athletes have had to overcome a few unexpected hurdles. Kate took the opportunity to convert her garage into a high-performance gym, which means she can keep her eye on her goal and build a strong foundation ahead of the season.
“There is a lot that you can do in a gym from a strength and conditioning perspective than can apply directly to into well-rounded athleticism that translates into being more capable on the bike.”
–Matt Smith, Kate's Strength Coach
Focus Control Balance
It's not all mountain biking in Kate's training schedule. In the gym, Kate's coach Matt ensures her program develops several key skills that translate onto the bike. From drills challenging balance on the indo board and swiss ball, to proprioception and strength-focused training all are done to prepare Kate to handle whatever is thrown at her on track.
“When you get into cold water, you often have that gasp reflex and you kind of have this feeling of panic and I think that's something that similar to when you're pushing really hard in a race.”
– Kate Courtney, 2019 World Cup Champion
Cold Therapy
For Kate Courtney, cold therapy and cold exposure is something that allows her to train that edge. It helps her realize that she's really in control of her body and that it's possible to control some of those reflexes and reactions that are experienced. Being able to anticipate and overcome these feelings with breathwork is another key aspect of building a solid foundation that can translate directly onto the racetrack.
Base Miles
Over the years, Kate's training has remained pretty similar. It's about building base miles, base strength, and ensuring she has prepared a strong engine to carry her through the season. As the old saying goes, consistency is key, but also finding new things that work in training and knowing when to let go of training that no longer helps with her development.
Photography / Video: Susan Theis, Emily Tidwell
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