---
title: "Questioning the Status Quo of Training"
date: 2024-03-23
categories: ["Training"]
url: https://www.semiprocycling.com/digest/questioning-the-status-quo-of-training
author: Damian Ruse (SEMIPRO Cycling)
---
# Questioning the Status Quo of Training

![](https://www.semiprocycling.com/digest/images/719c54a74f8dbb40818630b8.webp)

Dr. Robert McCunn has the same red flags I have about coaches who talk in absolutes or claim their system or strategy is the best way to train.

🏅 Practitioners should actively engage athletes, not just praise their inquisitive nature

❓ Pose legitimate challenges to traditional training assumptions

📚 Rely on fascinating research like John Kiely's 2018 Sports Medicine article

Kiely's work:
✅ Discussed training periodisation theory
💡 Confronted ingrained truths
🔬 Highlighted developments beyond original assumptions

McCunn believes that when athletes ask about aspects of training/recovery, practitioners should:

1. Acknowledge uncertainty
2. Avoid definitive answers
3. Engage in open, honest dialogue

By embracing this mindset, performance practitioners can:
💪 Illustrate challenges in the field
🤝 Foster better collaboration with athletes
📈 Achieve improved training outcomes

The key takeaway? A more interactive, questioning approach to athlete training is the way forward. 🌟

## On my mind: We all different

As an athlete (yes, you're an athlete), you've gotta be real with yourself; the mental game is just as important as the physical.

And a huge part of that is understanding the different personalities you're dealing with, both on and off the bike.

We're not talking about labelling people or judging them, but just being aware of how their behaviours might throw you off your game.

Some folks you'll meet are just plain difficult—maybe they're narcissistic and think the world revolves around them, or they have borderline traits and their emotions are all over the place.

Instead of getting caught up in their drama, learn to recognise those patterns and keep your cool. Set some boundaries, stay grounded, and don't let their stuff become your stuff.

That level-headedness can be the difference between you staying focused and getting thrown off course.

Damian