Female cyclists, like all athletes, can face mental challenges as they approach the end of the cycling season. Maintaining motivation, staying focused, and managing fatigue become crucial during this time. Here are some strategies that can use to mentally continue training towards the end of the season:

1. Set Clear Goals: Define specific goals for the end of the season. Whether it's achieving a personal best time, completing a certain number of miles, or mastering a particular technique, having clear objectives can provide a sense of purpose and direction.

2. Break Down Training: Break down your training plan into smaller, manageable chunks. Focus on short-term goals and achievements to prevent feeling overwhelmed by the larger goal of the season's end.

3. Variety and Fun: Introduce variety into your training routine. Incorporate new routes, training partners, or activities to keep things interesting and prevent monotony. Finding joy in your training can help maintain motivation

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Taking a mid-season break from professional cycling is essential for several reasons that benefit both the physical and mental well-being of the athletes. Here are some of the key importance of mid-season breaks:

1. Physical Recovery: Cycling is a physically demanding sport that puts a significant strain on the body, especially during races and intense training periods. A mid-season break allows cyclists to rest and recover from the accumulated fatigue, reducing the risk of overuse injuries and promoting overall physical health.
2. Mental Rejuvenation: Cycling is not just physically demanding; it can also be mentally taxing. Athletes face constant pressure to perform at their best, deal with competition stress, and handle the rigorous training routines. A break offers a chance to relax, unwind, and recharge mentally, which can improve focus, motivation, and overall mental resilience.
3. Injury Prevention: Continuous cycling without adequate rest can lead to overuse injuries, such as muscle
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The history of women's cycling is a fascinating journey that spans over a century, marked by milestones, challenges, and the ongoing fight for gender equality in the sport. Here is a brief overview of the history of women's cycling:

Late 19th and Early 20th Centuries:

• The early days of women's cycling coincide with the rise of the bicycle in the late 19th century. Bicycles provided women with newfound mobility and freedom.
• In the 1890s, women started participating in cycling races, but they faced societal opposition and prejudice.
• The first recorded women's cycling race took place in 1895, organized by the London-based Stanley Cycle Club.

1920s to 1950s:

• In the 1920s, women's cycling gained more recognition. The Women's Racing League was established in Britain in 1927 to promote women's cycling.
• The Union Cycliste Internationale (UCI), the governing body for cycling, held its first Women's World Championships in 1958 for road racing.

1960s to 1980s:

• The 1960s witness
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Virginia’s Blue Ridge TWENTY24 pro cycling team traveled north from their home base in Roanoke for the two-day Armed Forces Cycling Classic held June 3-4 in Arlington, VA. The team took the win both days in the 25th edition of the race.

The Armed Forces Cycling Classic, presented by The Boeing Company, is the region’s premier cycling event, open to professional athletes and cycling enthusiasts of all abilities with events throughout the weekend. Virginia’s Blue Ridge TWENTY24 assembled a powerhouse roster for the weekend’s pro races including current World and Olympic champion Jennifer Valente (USA), Cuban sensation Marlies Mejias (CUB), 40-time Mexican National Champion Sofia Arreola (MEX), 2023 Redlands overall GC winner Emily Ehrlich (USA), Dani Morshead (USA) who has been focused on track racing, and the team’s newest rider Laurel Quinones (USA). The team was directed by London Olympian Shelley Olds. 

The team assumed control of the race early on both days, firing off attac...

"Overall this weekend was a great opener to the World Cup season. It started off with a chaotic and fast short track, and I was very excited to be a part of the first ever U23 XCC! My XCO race was both a great first race and the first step of building towards the results and fitness I aspire to attain this season. I left it all out there on course and I think that’s really all one can ask for so I’m proud of my effort and even more motivated to get back to the drawing board and continue training for the next World Cup!" - Thanks for reading, Maddie 

Photos: Ross Bell Photo 

The protein requirements for a female cyclist, like any other athlete, can vary depending on several factors such as body weight, training intensity, training duration, goals, and overall energy expenditure. However, a general guideline for protein intake for athletes is around 1.2 to 2.0 grams of protein per kilogram of body weight per day.

To calculate the protein requirement, you would need to know the weight of the cyclist in kilograms. Let's assume the cyclist weighs 60 kilograms. In that case, the recommended protein intake would be:

Minimum: 1.2 grams/kg/day x 60 kg = 72 grams of protein per day Maximum: 2.0 grams/kg/day x 60 kg = 120 grams of protein per day

So, for a professional female cyclist weighing 60 kilograms, the protein intake should generally be between 72 to 120 grams per day. It's important to note that these are rough guidelines, and it's always best to consult with a registered dietitian or a sports nutritionist who can provide personalized recommendations bas...

After 3 stages of @lavueltafem @kx3lifestyleandcoaching athlete @chloedygert sits 2nd GC after a 2nd place in TTT and two 3rd places! More today on @peacock 

Chloe Dygert: “I kept myself comfortable all day. There was only one time when I got caught up and had to jump across to the front group. There was a lot of panic from many riders in the peloton. I tried to stay as alert as possible without fighting for unnecessary positions until the crucial moments of the race.”

“When it came to the sprint, we were trying to keep the pace fast, and the speed was good for me. It was just a learning curve on my end. I’ve never sprinted before, there’s a lot to improve on, and I’m happy to have the guidance from the team to help me get there!”

“To be honest, I don’t think myself or anyone else really knows what to expect from me in sprinting or other aspects. I’m just trying not to limit myself. Giving me the opportunities to try and learn is only making me a stronger and smarter rider. I’m disappoint...

"We go home with the Green Sprint Jersey #teamwork. The Gila Monster was monstrous & though we did not get the finish we were aiming for, our squad gave it their all and motivated to get after it again at Joe Martin Stage Race" - Shayna Powless DNA Pro Cycling 

Saturday’s Stage 4 Downtown Silver City Criterium was relentless, exhilarating, fast, and fun for the full 27 miles. “The team raced hard and aggressively and had so much fun doing it.” said Shelley Olds, Virginia’s Blue Ridge TWENTY24 Team Director. “It was a perfect leadout by Sofía and Marlies to deliver Emily for the team’s third stage win!”

“Congratulations to all the teams for coming out to play today!” said Ehrlich. “It was completely and entirely a showing of perfect teamwork. I'm speechless at how humbled these girls make me feel. Marlies, Sofia, Laurel, and Nicole—they're incredible. Team work makes the dream work.”

Ehrlich picked up her third consecutive individual time trial win this year at Stage 3 of Tour of the Gila. The out-and-back TT course gained 1,000 feet of elevation over 16.15-miles. “I put it all out there for another win in the time trial,” said Ehrlich. “I’m forever grateful to VBR TWENTY24 and KX3 Lifestyle and Coaching for the opportunities and supporting me and pushing me to find my best self!”