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Bike Racing for Juniors: A Guide for Riders, Parents, and Coaches

by Kristen Dieffenbach and Steve McCauley

The only book to specifically equip young bike racers for competitive racing, Bike Racing for Juniors highlights the unique needs of young athletes. Designed to complement current training methodologies, this book balances the development of junior athletes with the physical and emotional demands of competitive cycling.

From nutritional requirements to strength and stamina limitations, Junior (under-18) and Espoir (under-23) athletes are significantly different from their adult counterparts. Authors Kristen Dieffenbach and Steve McCauley take into account all of the considerations of young cyclists with a thorough discussion of every aspect of training from skill building and weight training to psychological development, and injury treatment and prevention.

In addition to training recommendations, Dieffenbach and McCauley address the importance of a young athlete's environment, with chapters dedicated to parental involvement and positive coaching strategies. They outline the unique rules in Junior and Espoir racing, and explain the timeline for progression from beginner to experienced racer.

Tomorrow's pros can rely on this book for the background and preparation they need to succeed in cycling.

Paperback.

6" x 9", 416 pp.
201BRJ, $18.95
978-1-934030-22-6

Kristen Dieffenbach is an elite-level USA Cycling certified coach and assistant professor of athletic coaching education at West Virginia University. She holds a PhD in exercise science with an emphasis in sports psychology. Currently, Kristen serves on the advisory board of the USA Cycling coaching education committee.

Steve McCauley is Director of Development for the USA Cycling Development Foundation and a certified USA Cycling Coach. In his eight years with USA Cycling, McCauley has worked closely with the sport's up-and-coming talent, managing USA Cycling's Junior and Espoir regional and national development camp systems, directing the collegiate cycling programs and in 2006 launching the new junior European racing program.