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 for cycling with my commitment to continual education and innovation.

The Start of My Coaching Career

The journey began in December 2014 when I decided to transition from being a competitive athlete to becoming a coach. I had always been fascinated by the science behind performance and how structured training programs could optimize an athlete’s potential. It was then that I enrolled in the USA Cycling Level 3 certification program. This initial certification was the foundation upon which I began to build my career, allowing me to work with a range of athletes and fine-tune my skills in developing personalized training plans that catered to each individual’s needs and abilities.

Broadening My Knowledge: The Endurance Coaching Summit

In September 2019, I attended the Endurance Coaching Summit organized by TrainingPeaks University, held at the University of Colorado in Boulder, Colorado. This multi-day event, from September 17-20, was pivotal in my coaching career. The summit brought together some of the brightest minds in endurance sports, and I seized the opportunity to learn from them. Attending lectures, workshops, and hands-on sessions allowed me to accelerate my knowledge in sports science, data analysis, and athlete management. I earned continuing education credits and received my TrainingPeaks Level 1 Certification, a testament to my commitment to staying up-to-date with the latest developments in the field.

Advancing My Credentials: USA Cycling Level 2 Certification

Later in 2019, I pursued my USA Cycling Level 2 Certification. This wasn’t just about gaining another credential; it was about deepening my expertise. In October 2019, I attended an intensive clinic at the Olympic Training Center in Chula Vista, CA. Alongside a group of fellow coaches, I participated in a comprehensive program that included classroom instruction and outdoor clinics. These sessions were designed to elevate our coaching abilities, focusing on advanced training methodologies, biomechanics, and power-based analysis.

This hands-on experience was invaluable. Not only did it enhance my understanding of the practical application of training principles, but it also provided me with a network of coaches who share a passion for developing athletes. It was a transformative experience that refined my approach to coaching.

Becoming a NICA Certified Coach: Giving Back to the Community

In October 2019, I also became a NICA (National Interscholastic Cycling Association) Level 1 Certified Coach after attending an in-person course led by trainer Nikki Peterson. I believe in supporting the next generation of athletes, and this certification allowed me to work with youth athletes. That season, I volunteered with the Eastlake / SBC MTB Team, where I played an active role in shaping young cyclists’ training programs. I took charge of managing training plans and led indoor courses at the YMCA, helping junior athletes develop foundational skills in a structured, supportive environment.

Coaching youth athletes is particularly rewarding as it allows me to impart valuable lessons beyond sport, such as discipline, teamwork, and resilience. It has become a critical part of my coaching ethos.

Enhancing My Coaching Tools: TrainingPeaks WKO5

In June 2020, I invested in TrainingPeaks WKO5 software, a powerful tool that has taken my coaching to the next level. The software allows me to analyze athletes’ workouts in-depth, using advanced models and data visualization to track progress and make precise adjustments. To maximize the effectiveness of this tool, I completed over 10 online courses to understand the intricacies of athlete metrics, ensuring that I could apply the data effectively. This has been instrumental in customizing training plans and maximizing the gains athletes can achieve within their available time.

Deepening My Expertise: TrainingPeaks Level 2 Certification

In 2021, with the goal of enhancing my athletes’ training programs, I enrolled in online courses from TrainingPeaks University to achieve my TrainingPeaks Level 2 Certification. This advanced certification emphasized using training data effectively to tailor programs even further to individual athletes. It also expanded my understanding of periodization, heart rate zones, and power metrics, which are crucial in designing peak performance plans. The knowledge gained here helped me build a comprehensive approach that integrates the latest technological tools, data analysis techniques, and performance monitoring systems to keep athletes on track towards their goals.

Investing in Technology: The VO2 Master

In July 2024, I took a significant step to elevate my coaching practice by investing in the VO2 Master, a state-of-the-art, portable metabolic and aerobic testing device. This tool allows for precise measurements of an athlete’s oxygen consumption, providing insights into their cardiovascular and respiratory efficiency. To maximize the potential of this technology, I enrolled in several courses focusing on the intricacies of VO2 testing and its application in sports science.

The ability to integrate VO2 data into my training programs has been a game-changer. It enables me to create more personalized, precise plans that optimize each athlete’s performance based on their metabolic profile. Whether it’s determining ventilatory thresholds, understanding recovery needs, or fine-tuning intervals, the data collected from the VO2 Master has allowed me to elevate the efficiency and effectiveness of every workout. It’s about using technology not just for the sake of it, but as a meaningful tool to enhance athlete outcomes.

Achieving the Highest Standard: USA Cycling Level 1 Certification

In October 2024, I traveled to Bentonville, Arkansas, to complete my USA Cycling Level 1 Certification, the highest certification level offered by USA Cycling. The program was not only intense but also incredibly enriching. I had the privilege of learning from some of the top educators and coaches in the sport, and we were even joined by professional athletes who shared their insights and experiences.

What made this program special was the sense of community and camaraderie among coaches, athletes, and instructors. It was more than just a certification course; it was a gathering of individuals passionate about cycling and dedicated to advancing the sport. We participated in in-depth discussions about performance optimization, the latest training techniques, and how to integrate data effectively into coaching programs. The experience also offered a glimpse into the lifestyle and routines of Olympians, who happened to be in town that week. A highlight was attending a community event where they hosted a pump track race for kids, showcasing the accessibility and excitement of the sport.

Philosophy and Approach: Science-Driven and Athlete-Centered

Throughout my coaching journey, one thing has remained constant: my commitment to using science-backed methods to help athletes reach their potential. I believe in a results-driven approach that combines technology, knowledge, and passion. Every athlete is unique, and my job is to identify their strengths, weaknesses, and opportunities for growth. This means developing training programs that are not only efficient but also tailored to individual needs, ensuring that each session contributes to the athlete’s overall progress.

A critical part of my philosophy is communication. I prioritize open, consistent communication with my athletes, ensuring they understand the ‘why’ behind every workout. This transparency builds trust and helps athletes stay motivated and focused, knowing that every element of their training is designed to move them closer to their goals.

A Glimpse into the Future: Expanding Services and Technology Integration

Looking ahead, I am excited to continue expanding my coaching services. The integration of tools like the VO2 Master and the insights it provides will play a crucial role in my future plans. I am also looking into further certifications and workshops that can enhance my understanding of biomechanics and performance optimization. Additionally, I am exploring opportunities to create more community-based events, like youth clinics, to inspire the next generation of athletes.

The coaching field is always evolving, and I am committed to evolving with it. My focus remains on leveraging cutting-edge technology and methodologies to ensure my athletes achieve their best while enjoying the process. Whether working with young, aspiring athletes or seasoned competitors, my goal is to foster a positive, growth-oriented environment where every athlete can thrive.

Thank you for reading!

Gilberto Cortez - USA Cycling & TrainingPeaks Certified Coach