Squamish's Miranda Miller experienced first hand the benefits of high level training during Cycling B.C.'s first ever downhill mountain biking testing session, which took place at the Pacific Institute for Sport Excellence (PISE) in Victoria on Nov. 6 and 7.
The 20-year-old rider was one of eight downhill cyclists to take part in a series of sprint and maximum aerobic power testing sequences. Peak power output and high cadence capacity were recorded and the data will also be used at future camps to compare progress and areas needing improvement.
Miller said the opportunity meets her goal of keeping up with training to continually better herself as an athlete.
"Proper training attention, nutrition awareness, equipment and financial support combined with B.C.'s prime training grounds will produce the strongest team we've seen yet," she said.
"I am personally doing everything in my power to become the strongest, physically and mentally, and most dominant female downhill rider/racer in the world."
According to Cycling B.C. head coach Chad Hendren, it was an eye-opening but valuable experience for the downhill team.
"I was very pleased with their efforts and the attention they gave the instructions and information they received," he said.
"They really busted themselves to do well. I think there was only one athlete who had experienced this form of testing before when he was involved with the cross country team - all the others were complete novices and they did well, were totally open-minded and glad to learn."
Following the testing, the team had hands-on sessions with PISE strength, conditioning and flexibility instructors. They were also educated on the importance of regeneration and recovery.
For many riders, this was a new experience but to achieve success at a national and international level, taking care of your body is of utmost importance.
Miller said that while it was a completely new experience, she thinks all the training will pay off with podium finishes.
"It will be a long process but I am confident, with Cycling B.C's help and support as well as my own determination and sponsors, that I will be successful," she said. "The weekend in Victoria will be the first of many training camps that I'm looking forward to."
Miller added that she thinks it should be a banner year for the team.
"I am really excited to be a part of the Cycling B.C. Downhill Team for 2011 as I believe everyone, riders and coaches, are taking things more seriously than ever before," she said. "Being able to utilize the facilities of the Pacific Sport Training Centre in Victoria is just the beginning of stepping up our performance."
The team is planning several more sessions at the PISE, with the season starting in the spring.
For more information on the Cycling B.C. team, visit www.cyclingbc.net.
