Articles on Cycling

My Coaching Journey: A Commitment to Excellence

My Coaching Journey: A Commitment to Excellence

My name is Gilberto Cortez, and my mission as a coach is simple: to help athletes reach their full potential through science-backed, efficient training. I’m currently a USA Cycling Level 1 Certified Coach and a TrainingPeaks Level 2 Certified Coach. With over a decade of experience, I’ve developed a coaching philosophy that merges my passion […]

PRT Training Camp 2024

PRT Training Camp 2024

This past weekend, the Padyak Racing Team (PRT) gathered for an exciting training camp in San Diego, CA, and I had the privilege of not only leading a group rides but also presenting the 2024 Great Western Training Program (GWTP) on Saturday. As well as leading the team in a day of Race Skill Drills […]

Bonita – Lyons Valley Training Ride

Bonita – Lyons Valley Training Ride

Join me and the PRT Team for a Scenic Climbing Training Ride – from Bonita to Lyons Valley! Details: 🚴 Date: Saturday, May 11, 2024📍 Start Location: TJ Oyster Bar – Bonita at 4410 Bonita Rd Bonita, CA 91902 Embark on an exciting group ride alongside the PRT team through the beautiful landscapes from Bonita […]

PRT Mile Course

PRT Mile Course

Welcome to the PRT Mile Run course, a meticulously designed one-mile track tailored for runners of all skill levels who seek to challenge their pace and endurance. Nestled in a beautiful setting, this course offers a unique blend of scenic views and strategic elevation shifts. Whether you’re a seasoned runner aiming to sharpen your performance […]

From Racing to Reconnecting: My Tenth Year at the Sea Otter Classic

From Racing to Reconnecting: My Tenth Year at the Sea Otter Classic

As the sun rises over the Laguna Seca Recreation Area near Monterey, California, the anticipation and excitement are palpable. For cycling enthusiasts like myself, the Sea Otter Classic isn’t just another festival; it’s a pilgrimage. This year marked my tenth consecutive year attending, a streak punctuated not just by the thrill of competition but by […]

How many calories do you burn?

How many calories do you burn?

Have you ever wondered just how many calories you burn during a cycling session and how this affects your nutritional needs? The amount of energy an individual needs to consume can vary significantly from person to person. By understanding the average power output during activities like cycling, one can estimate calorie expenditure fairly accurately. This […]

Riding Through the Storm: My Journey from Peak Fitness to Recovery

Riding Through the Storm: My Journey from Peak Fitness to Recovery

Hey there, I’m Gilberto Cortez, a USA Cycling and TrainingPeaks certified coach, but also an amateur cyclist and racer whose life took an unexpected detour early this year. Before I dive into that, let me paint you a picture of where I was at physically. After a solid block of training through November and December, […]

Maximizing the Coach-Athlete Relationship

Maximizing the Coach-Athlete Relationship

In the realm of cycling, the coach-athlete relationship is fundamental. It is the backbone of performance, the driving force behind personal growth, and ultimately, the cornerstone of success. This partnership’s strength lies not only in its professional dynamics but also in its humanistic elements, which infuse the coach-athlete relationship with a unique sense of partnership […]

Athletes Overcoming Unexpected Adversity

Athletes Overcoming Unexpected Adversity

Athletes face numerous challenges throughout their careers, including injuries, unexpected losses, and intense competition. However, dealing with unexpected adversity can be particularly challenging for athletes, both physically and mentally. Whether it’s a sudden injury that prevents them from participating in their sport or an unexpected loss that derails their momentum, unexpected adversity can be a […]

Bicycle Fit: Assessing an athlete’s flexibility

Bicycle Fit: Assessing an athlete’s flexibility

During a bicycle fit, assessing an athlete’s flexibility is crucial for several reasons. Firstly, it ensures a proper bike fit that accommodates the rider’s body. For instance, if an athlete has limited flexibility in their hamstrings or lower back, a higher handlebar position may be necessary to prevent strain and discomfort. Secondly, assessing the athlete’s […]