Chris Hoys'
hints, tips & advice
What age did you begin cycling?
I started cycling when I was 7. I got into BMX racing and raced until I was 14 before going on to try mountain biking, road racing, time trialing and eventually track.
What made you want to get involved in cycling professionally?
I never expected to become a professional when I first started cycling; it was purely something I did for fun. As I progressed and improved my performances, it became a possibility that I would be able to it full-time. This coincided with me graduating from university, so it worked out ideally for me.
How did you do get into cycling professionally? (E.g. local Club/through schools etc)
I joined a local cycling club in Edinburgh initially, then when I improved I was eventually selected to join the Scottish track squad. Once I had some international results under my belt I managed to make it onto the British team.
Have you any tips for aspiring cyclists?
I would try not to take it too seriously at first; ride for fun. If you have a competitive nature and have ambitions of seeing what you can achieve, I would contact your local club via (http://www.britishcycling.org.uk) and they will give you times and places to meet up with more cyclists in your area, who you can ride with and learn from.
How often do you train and how long a day?
I train every day. Usually I have at least two sessions per day; For example a 2 hour gym or road session in the morning and a 3 hour track session in the afternoon. During the main part of the season, when training volume is high, I could do as much as 7 hours a day. On average I would have at least one day per week when I would only do an easy 1 hour road ride, this helps with recovery from all the high intensity work.
What is your diet?
I have a pretty balanced diet in general, but there are certain things I need more/less of than someone who doesn't exercise as much as I do. I need lots of slow release carbohydrates to fuel my body for exercise. I usually eat at least one Soreen loaf every day; I eat half a loaf 1 hour before each training session, which helps give me the energy I need to train to my full potential. I also eat lots of cereal, pasta and rice. To help regenerate and repair hard-worked muscle tissue, it is crucial to keep a constant pool of amino acids available. This is done by eating plenty of quality protein, which I get mainly from chicken, fish and beef. Of course, in order to get enough of the right nutrients and minerals I eat plenty fresh fruit and vegetables. I also drink around 5 litres of water per day.
What should you look for when choosing a bike?
First of all, make sure you know what you will use the bike for. One Pitfall many people buying bikes fall into, is to by a bike which doesn't fit the purpose intended. In otherwords don't buy a full-suspension Mountain bike if you will only use the bike to commute around town! Go to a reputable cycle dealership and ask their advice. Size of bike is crucial for comfort/safety; a good sales assistant will help you with this. Don't forget to budget for a helmet, bike lock and lights.
Do you cycle for pleasure as well as training e.g. to the shops?
I love to cycle, although I must admit I am a bit of a fair weather cyclist!! Most of my training is indoors on the track and in the gym, but I still do around 10 hours per week on the road. If it's sunny outside there's nothing I enjoy more than a ride through quiet country roads on my bike.
Who is your inspiration?
I have been inspired by so many different people throughout my life, Not just in sport. As a kid my heroes included Gavin Hastings (Scottish Rugby legend) and John Robertson (Hearts footballer). When I became a bit older I was definitely inspired by Graeme Obree's World record breaking performances in the mid 90's. Not only was he Scottish and an unfunded self supported athlete, but he also challenged the way the cycling establishment perceive, bike design and riding position; he design and built his own bikes and became World Champion totally against the odds. Outwith cycling, my Mum and Dad have been an inspiration to me.
Why do you think cycling is important?
It's fun, it's great for health and fitness, plus it's a viable transport option for many people which could ultimately have a positive effect on the environment.
