In part 1 of this series, I covered six general tips for teaching switchbacks: how many, how often, how long, and how to use music to define your switchbacks. Now, in part 2, let’s explore five unique scenarios to visualize and cue your switchbacks, ensuring your classes are always fresh, fun, and realistic. Remember, no two switchbacks are the same, and these scenarios will expand your coaching repertoire and enhance your ability to motivate your riders.
Switchbacks are inspired by real-world examples of roads or trails doubling back on themselves, usually due to the terrain’s demands. Engineers designing roads through steep mountains have to work with nature, resulting in unique switchback experiences. Let’s dive into these scenarios!
Scenario #1: The Brutal Hairpin with Relief Afterward
In summary, try to employ a few different techniques each time you’re teaching switchbacks. You can create an entire profile around an epic climb, create an interval ride based on climbing and devote one interval to switchbacks, or just use switchbacks as a drill anywhere in your profile. If you have video capabilities, it’s helpful to add some images of climbing switchbacks. You can find videos on YouTube, or Google any of the names of famous climbs I’ve mentioned above and click on images.
My final recommendation, if you can avail yourself of it, is to put on your bucket list an experience of getting on a real bike and climbing a real mountain with switchbacks. It doesn’t need to be in Europe (though wouldn’t that be nice?), but borrow a bike if you have to and find a road that doubles back on itself. You will immediately recognize how it can change everything!
How long should the recovery be between each switchback? Is there a recovery, or just a drop in intensity? Thanks!
Oh I love all these scenarios and how to coach each one! Thanks for the visuals too! 🙂