---
title: "Why Taking a Long Break Could Make You a Stronger Cyclist"
date: 2025-01-04
categories: ["Recovery & sleep"]
url: https://www.semiprocycling.com/digest/why-taking-a-long-break-could-make-you-a-stronger-cyclist
author: Damian Ruse (SEMIPRO Cycling)
---
# Why Taking a Long Break Could Make You a Stronger Cyclist

![](https://www.semiprocycling.com/digest/images/f4643cb015bcc09bdd21f004.webp)

A recent case study published in *Frontiers in Physiology* and *JCSM Communications* challenges the fear of losing fitness after extended breaks. Romuald Lepers, a 53-year-old elite triathlete, took 12 weeks off training and observed a 10% drop in VO2 max. Surprisingly, after 12 weeks of retraining, his VO2 max not only recovered but improved by 4-6%.

The study suggests that even masters athletes can regain—and potentially surpass—previous fitness levels after a structured break. Muscle biopsies revealed enhanced metabolic efficiency post-retraining, hinting at improved adaptation potential.

For cyclists, this highlights the benefits of strategic rest. Breaks may reduce burnout, boost motivation, and spark physiological gains. Instead of fearing fitness loss, embrace breaks as recovery and reset periods—key to long-term performance.

**Study Links:**

[Frontiers in Physiology](https://www.frontiersin.org/journals/physiology/articles/10.3389/fphys.2024.1508642/full) and [JCSM Communications](https://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1002/rco2.93)

We’re Growing – Want to Join the Team?

I’m looking for two roles to help take things to the next level:

- **Assistant Coach:** Help with analysis, training plans, and supporting athletes.
- **Video Editor:** Assist with editing high-quality cycling content.

If you—or someone you know—might be a good fit, just hit *reply* and let me know which role you’re interested in. I’ll follow up with more details!

## On my mind: Newton’s first law

What most people know as inertia—says that an object stays still or keeps moving in the same direction and speed unless a force changes it.

The big takeaway? Resistance to change is built into motion, and the same applies to habits. Without a push, nothing changes. But once you’re moving, momentum does the work

Damian