Introduction to the Program

A comprehensive and 100% online program, exclusive to TECH, with an international perspective supported by our membership with The Chartered Association of Sport and Exercise Sciences”

High performance in sports requires specialized knowledge and precise strategies to optimize athlete performance. In this context, Professional Cycling has established itself as a discipline that demands a combination of endurance, power, and rigorous planning. Beyond competition, its importance lies in the application of scientific principles to improve biomechanical efficiency, minimize the risk of injury, and maximize aerobic capacity. The integration of advanced technology and evidence-based methodologies allows cyclists to reach optimal performance.

Given this premise, TECH has created this Master's Degree in Professional Cycling, offering professionals a unique opportunity to strengthen their expertise in this field. With updated knowledge, they will be able to develop innovative training strategies, improve cyclists’ energy efficiency, and design plans adapted to the demands of competition. Additionally, they will enhance critical analysis and the application of technological tools to assess performance in real-time.

Furthermore, dynamic and effective training will be ensured through the Relearning method, based on the progressive repetition of key content. Thanks to its 100% online format, access will be available at any time and from any device with internet connectivity. This flexible and adaptive approach will allow for practical knowledge absorption, promoting long-term retention and ensuring specialization aligned with the current demands of Professional Cycling.

Additionally, thanks to the membership in The Chartered Association of Sport and Exercise Sciences (CASES), students will gain access to exclusive educational resources, discounts on events and specialized publications, and practical benefits such as professional insurance. They will also be able to join an active community, participate in committees, and obtain accreditations that enhance their development, visibility, and professional prospects in the field of sports and exercise science.

You will immerse yourself in high-performance sports environments, with a dynamic methodology and content available 24/7”

This Master's Degree in Professional Cycling contains the most complete and up-to-date university program on the market. Its most notable features are:

  • The development of practical cases presented by experts in Professional Cycling
  • The graphic, schematic, and practical contents with which they are created, provide scientific and practical information on the disciplines that are essential for professional practice
  • Practical exercises where the self-assessment process can be carried out to improve learning
  • Special emphasis on innovative methodologies in high-performance sports
  • Theoretical lessons, questions to the expert, debate forums on controversial topics, and individual reflection assignments
  • Content that is accessible from any fixed or portable device with an internet connection

You will master the fundamental principles and advanced capabilities of exercise physiology in cyclists”

The teaching staff includes professionals from the field of Professional Cycling, who bring their practical experience into this program, alongside renowned specialists from leading societies and prestigious universities.

The multimedia content, developed with the latest educational technology, will provide the professional with situated and contextual learning, i.e., a simulated environment that will provide an immersive learning experience designed to prepare for real-life situations.

This program is designed around Problem-Based Learning, whereby the student must try to solve the different professional practice situations that arise throughout the program. For this purpose, the professional will be assisted by an innovative interactive video system created by renowned and experienced experts.

With the innovative Relearning system, you will access key knowledge on muscular adaptation, understanding its processes and applications"

You will enhance training programming, applying innovative approaches to improve cyclist performance more effectively"

Syllabus

This academic itinerary will cover fundamental aspects for the development of Professional Cycling, starting with cycling training by power, which allows for adjusting the load and optimizing performance based on individual capabilities. Additionally, it will delve into biomechanics, providing tools to analyze posture and movement—key elements for preventing injuries and improving efficiency during competitions. Moreover, the program will explore nutrition, focusing on how it influences performance and recovery in cyclists, enabling the design of personalized diets that maximize energy at crucial moments.

Thanks to the most comprehensive and up-to-date curriculum on the market, you will understand and address how nutrition influences cycling performance”

Module 1. Exercise Physiology in Cyclists

1.1. Energy Systems

1.1.1. Phosphagen Metabolism
1.1.2. Glycolysis
1.1.3. Oxidative System

1.2. HR (Heart Rate)

1.2.1. Resting Heart Rate
1.2.2. Heart Rate Reserve
1.2.3. Maximum Heart Rate

1.3. The Role of Lactate

1.3.1. Definition
1.3.2. Lactate Metabolism
1.3.3. Role in Physical Activity and Threshold Determination

1.4. Determination of Ventilatory Thresholds (Physiological Milestones)

1.4.1. VT1 (First Ventilatory Threshold)
1.4.2. VT2 (First Ventilatory Threshold)
1.4.3. Vo2max

1.5. Performance Markers

1.5.1. FTP (Functional Threshold Power) / CP (Critical Power)
1.5.2. VAM (Maximum Aerobic Speed)
1.5.3. Compund Score

1.6. Performance Testing

1.6.1. Laboratory Test
1.6.2. Field Test
1.6.3. Power Profile Test

1.7. HRV (Heart Rate Variability)

1.7.1. Definition
1.7.2. Measurement Methods
1.7.3. HRV-Based Adaptations

1.8. Adaptations

1.8.1. General Adaptations
1.8.2. Central Adaptations
1.8.3. Peripheral Adaptations

1.9. Blood Analysis

1.9.1. Biochemistry
1.9.2. Hematology
1.9.3. Hormones

1.10. Female Physiology

1.10.1. Unique Characteristics of Women
1.10.2. Training and the Menstrual Cycle
1.10.3. Specific Supplementation

Module 2. Cycling Training Planning and Programming

2.1. Cycling Training Methods

2.1.1. Continuous (Uniform and Variable)
2.1.2. Interval Fractional Training
2.1.3. Repetition Fractional Training

2.2. Distribution of Intensity

2.2.1. Forms of Distribution
2.2.2. Pyramidal
2.2.3. Polarized

2.3. Block Periodization

2.3.1. Traditional
2.3.2. Block Periodization
2.3.3. Inverse

2.4. Recovery Strategies

2.4.1. Activate
2.4.2. Passive
2.4.3. Recovery Methods

2.5. Session Design

2.5.1. Warm-Up
2.5.2. Main Session
2.5.3. Cool-Down

2.6. Development of Capacities

2.6.1. Improvement of VT1 (First Ventilatory Threshold)
2.6.2. Improvement of VT2 (First Ventilatory Threshold)
2.6.3. Improvement of Vo2max (First Ventilatory Threshold)
2.6.4. Improvement of Pmax and Anaerobic Capacity

2.7. Long-Term Cyclist Development

2.7.1. Learning to Train
2.7.2. Learning to Compete
2.7.3. Training to Compete

2.8. Master Cyclist Training

2.8.1. Competitive Demands of Master Races
2.8.2. Competitive Calendar
2.8.3. Load Distribution

2.9. U23 Cyclist Training

2.9.1. Competitive Demands
2.9.2. Competitive Calendar
2.9.3. Load Distribution

2.10. Professional Cyclist Training

2.10.1. Competitive Demands
2.10.2. Competitive Calendar
2.10.3. Load Distribution

Module 3. Quantification of Loads

3.1. Traditional Quantification Model

3.1.1. Definition of Quantification
3.1.2. Three-Phase Model
3.1.3. Advantages and Disadvantages

3.2. Banister Model

3.2.1. Definition
3.2.2. Why This Model?
3.2.3. Second Banister Model

3.3. TRIMPs Model

3.3.1. Definition
3.3.2. Application Factors
3.3.3. Advantages and Disadvantages

3.4. Lucia TRIMPs

3.4.1. Definition
3.4.2. Application Factors
3.4.3. Advantages and Disadvantages

3.5. CTL, ATL and TSB

3.5.1. Definition
3.5.2. Application Factors
3.5.3. Advantages and Disadvantages

3.6. ECOs Model

3.6.1. Definition
3.6.2. Application Factors
3.6.3. Advantages and Disadvantages

3.7. Quantification Based on sRPE

3.7.1. Definition
3.7.2. Application Factors
3.7.3. Advantages and Disadvantages

3.8. Training Peaks

3.8.1. Platform Explanation
3.8.2. Characteristics and Functions
3.8.3. Advantages and Disadvantages

3.9. Training Load Quantification in Professional Cycling

3.9.1. Communication as a Daily Basis
3.9.2. Quantification Models
3.9.3. Limitations

3.10. Doctoral Theses by Teun Van Erp and Daho Sanders

3.10.1. Quantification in Professional Competitions
3.10.2. Correlations Between Internal and External Load
3.10.3. Limitations

Module 4. Power Cycling Training

4.1. What is Power?

4.1.1. Definition
4.1.2. What is a Watt (W)?
4.1.3. What is a Joule?

4.2. Power Meters

4.2.1. How the Power Meter Works
4.2.2. Types
4.2.3. Dual
4.2.4. Pseudodual

4.3. What is FTP?

4.3.1. Definition
4.3.2. Estimation Methods
4.3.3. Application to Training

4.4. Determination of strengths

4.4.1. Competition Analysis
4.4.2. Data Analysis

4.5. Power Profile

4.5.1. Classic Power Profile
4.5.2. Advanced Power Profile
4.5.3. Power Profile Test

4.6. Performance Monitoring

4.6.1. What is Performance?
4.6.2. Monitoring of MMP (Maximum Mean Power)
4.6.3. Monitoring Physiological Parameters

4.7. Power Management Chart (PMC)

4.7.1. Monitoring External Load
4.7.2. Monitoring Internal Load
4.7.3. Integration of All Systems

4.8. Metrics

4.8.1. CP (Critical Power)
4.8.2. FRC/ w'
4.8.3. Pmax
4.8.4. Stamina / Durability

4.9. Fatigue Resistance

4.9.1. Definition
4.9.2. Based on KJ
4.9.3. Based on KJ/kg

4.10. Pacing

4.10.1. Definition
4.10.2. Normative Values for Time Trials
4.10.3. Estimation Software

Module 5. Biomechanics

5.1. What Is Biomechanics? What Goals Does it Pursue?

5.1.1. Definition
5.1.2. History
5.1.3. Application for Performance and Injury Prevention

5.2. Methods for Biomechanics

5.2.1. Static
5.2.2. Dynamic
5.2.3. Accelerometry

5.3. Foot, Arch, ROM, and Limb Length Discrepancy Assessment

5.3.1. Plantar Arch (ALI)
5.3.2. First Metatarsal
5.3.3. Types of Feet

5.4. Functional Assessment

5.4.1. ROM (Range of Motion)
5.4.2. Limb Length Discrepancy
5.4.3. Compensations

5.5. Shoe Selection and Bicycle Size (Stack and Reach)

5.5.1. Types of Shoes
5.5.2. Bicycle Frame Size Selection
5.5.3. Differences Between Road, MTB, and Time Trial Bicycles

5.6. Goniometry (Optimal Angles)

5.6.1. Saddle Height
5.6.2. Setback
5.6.3. Complementary Angles

5.7. Q-Factor and Cleat Adjustment

5.7.1. Forward Movement
5.7.2. Q-Factor
5.7.3. Cleat Rotation

5.8. Torque

5.8.1. Definition
5.8.2. Application to Training
5.8.3. Pedal Stroke Evaluation

5.9. Electromyography

5.9.1. Definition
5.9.2. Muscles Involved in Pedaling
5.9.3. Pedal Stroke Evaluation with EMG Systems

5.10. Most Common Injuries

5.10.1. Lower Back Injuries
5.10.2. Knee Injuries
5.10.3. Foot and Hand Injuries

Module 6. Cyclist Strength Training

6.1. Introduction to Strength

6.1.1. Definition
6.1.2. Concepts Related to Strength Expression
6.1.3. Strength and Cycling

6.2. Benefits of Strength Training in Cyclists

6.2.1. Molecular and Physiological Adaptation
6.2.2. Neural Adaptations
6.2.3. Improvement of Efficiency
6.2.4. Improvement of Body Composition

6.3. Methods to Measure Strength

6.3.1. Linear Measurement Systems
6.3.2. Dynamometer
6.3.3. Strength and Contact Platforms
6.3.4. Optical Platforms and Apps

6.4. RM (One-Rep Max)

6.4.1. Concept of RM
6.4.2. Concept of NRM (Non-Rep Max)
6.4.3. Concept of Effort Character

6.5. Execution Speed

6.5.1. Characteristic of Execution Defined by Execution Speed
6.5.2. Isoinertial Strength Evaluation
6.5.3. Strength/Speed/Power Curve

6.6. Planning and Programming Strength Training

6.6.1. Strength Programming
6.6.2. Exercise Programming
6.6.3. Session Programming

6.7. Strength Training on the Bicycle

6.7.1. Start-ups
6.7.2. Sprints
6.7.3. Neuromuscular Work
6.7.4. Is Torque Work Equal to Strength Training?

6.8. Concurrent Training

6.8.1. Definition
6.8.2. Strategies to Maximize Adaptations
6.8.3. Advantages and Disadvantages

6.9. Recommended Exercises

6.9.1. General
6.9.2. Specific
6.9.3. Session Example

6.10. Core Training

6.10.1. Definition
6.10.2. Benefits
6.10.3. Mobility Exercises
6.10.4. Types of Exercises

Module 7. Special Situations in Cycling Training

7.1. Heat

7.1.1. Performance in Heat
7.1.2. Training Responses and Adaptation Protocols
7.1.3. Humid Heat vs Dry Heat
7.1.4. Strategies to Enhance Benefits

7.2. Altitude

7.2.1. Performance and Altitude
7.2.2. Responders and Non-Responders
7.2.3. Benefits of Altitude

7.3. Train High - Live Low

7.3.1. Definition
7.3.2. Advantages
7.3.3. Disadvantages

7.4. Live High - Train Low

7.4.1. Definition
7.4.2. Advantages
7.4.3. Disadvantages

7.5. Live High - Compete High

7.5.1. Definition
7.5.2. Advantages
7.5.3. Disadvantages

7.6. Hypoxia

7.6.1. Definition
7.6.2. Advantages
7.6.3. Disadvantages

7.7. Intermittent Hypoxia

7.7.1. Definition
7.7.2. Advantages
7.7.3. Disadvantages

7.8. Air Pollution

7.8.1. Pollution and Performance
7.8.2. Adaptation Strategies
7.8.3. Disadvantages of Training

7.9. Jet Lag and Performance

7.9.1. Jet Lag and Performance
7.9.2. Adaptation Strategies
7.9.3. Supplementation

7.10. Adaptability to Nutritional Changes

7.10.1. Definition
7.10.2. Performance Loss
7.10.3. Supplementation

Module 8. Nutrition in Cyclists

8.1. Concept of Sports Nutrition

8.1.1. What is Sports Nutrition?
8.1.2. Clinical Nutrition vs. Sports Nutrition
8.1.3. Foods and Supplements

8.2. Basal Metabolic Rate (BMR) Calculation

8.2.1. Components of Energy Expenditure
8.2.2. Factors Affecting Resting Energy Expenditure
8.2.3. Measuring Energy Consumption

8.3. Body Composition

8.3.1. BMI and Traditional Ideal Weight. Does the "Ideal Weight" Exist?
8.3.2. Subcutaneous Fat and Skinfold Thickness
8.3.3. Other Methods for Determining Body Composition

8.4. Macronutrients and Micronutrients

8.4.1. Definition of Macronutrients and Micronutrients
8.4.2. Macronutrient Needs
8.4.3. Micronutrient Needs

8.5. Macro and Micro Periodization

8.5.1. Nutritional Periodization
8.5.2. Periodization in Macrocycles
8.5.3. Periodization in Microcycles

8.6. Sweat Rate and Hydration

8.6.1. Measuring Sweat Rate
8.6.2. Hydration Needs
8.6.3. Electrolytes

8.7. Stomach and Digestive System Training

8.7.1. Need to Train the Stomach and Digestive System
8.7.2. Phases of the Stomach and Digestive System
8.7.3. Application in Training and Racing

8.8. Supplementation

8.8.1. Supplementation and Ergonutritional Aids
8.8.2. The ABCD System of Supplements and Ergonutritional Aids
8.8.3. Individual Supplementation Needs

8.9. Trends in Sports Nutrition

8.9.1. Trends
8.9.2. Low-Carb, High-Fat
8.9.3. High-Carbohydrate Diets

8.10. Software and Applications

8.10.1. Methods for Controlling Macronutrients
8.10.2. Software for Nutrition Control
8.10.3. Applications for Athletes

Module 9. Structure and Functioning of a Cycling Team

9.1. Categories of Teams

9.1.1. Professional Categories (WT and ProContinental)
9.1.2. Continental Category
9.1.3. Elite and U23 Categories

9.2. Categories of Competitions

9.2.1. Stage Races
9.2.2. Classics
9.2.3. Categories According to Participation Level

9.3. Lower Categories

9.3.1. Schools
9.3.2. Cadets
9.3.3. Juniors

9.4. Role of the Manager

9.4.1. Cycling Team Manager
9.4.2. Sponsorships
9.4.3. Cyclist Manager / Representative

9.5. Role of the Director

9.5.1. Role of the Director as Coordinator
9.5.2. Role of the Director as Organizer
9.5.3. Role of the Director in Competition

9.6. Role of the Mechanics

9.6.1. Professional Team Equipment
9.6.2. Role of the Workshop Mechanic
9.6.3. Role of the Race Mechanic

9.7. Role of the Assistants, Masseurs, and Physiotherapists

9.7.1. Assistants
9.7.2. Physiotherapists
9.7.3. Masseurs

9.8. Role of the Rest of the Staff

9.8.1. Office
9.8.2. Workshop
9.8.3. Press

9.9. How to Structure the Competition

9.9.1. Competition Analysis
9.9.2. Define Competition Goals
9.9.3. Competition Planning Development

9.10. Day-to-Day Competition within a Team

9.10.1. Pre-Competition
9.10.2. During Competition
9.10.3. Post-Competition

Module 10. Cycling Disciplines

10.1. Track Cycling

10.1.1. Definition
10.1.2. Track Events
10.1.3. Competition Demands

10.2. Road Cycling

10.2.1. Definition
10.2.2. Modalities and Categories
10.2.3. Competitive Demands

10.3. CX (Cyclocross)

10.3.1. Definition
10.3.2. Competition Demands
10.3.3. Cyclocross Technique

10.4. Time Trial

10.4.1. Definition
10.4.2. Individual
10.4.3. Teams
10.4.4. Time Trial Preparation

10.5. MTB (Mountain Bike) / BTT (All-Terrain Bike)

10.5.1. Definition
10.5.2. MTB Events
10.5.3. Competition Demands

10.6. Gravel

10.6.1. Definition
10.6.2. Competition Demands
10.6.3. Specific Equipment

10.7. BMX

10.7.1. Definition
10.7.2. BMX Events
10.7.3. BMX Demands

10.8. Adaptive Cycling

10.8.1. Definition
10.8.2. Eligibility Criteria
10.8.3. Competition Demands

10.9. New Modalities Regulated by the UCI

10.9.1. E-Bike
10.9.2. E-Sports
10.9.3. Artistic Cycling

10.10. Cyclotourism

10.10.1. Definition
10.10.2. Cyclotourism Demands
10.10.3. Strategies for Facing Events

You will expand your knowledge and stay at the forefront of the most advanced strategies for training in the different cycling disciplines”

Master's Degree in Professional Cycling

Cycling is categorized as an extremely demanding sport, but so rewarding that it provides athletes with a high endurance and sporting ability. This practice requires not only ample physical preparation, but also mental preparation to successfully meet the demands of each competition. Would you like to become a high-level coach or trainer? With the Master's Degree in Professional Cycling at TECH Global University you can achieve it. The program has a 100% online mode of study and is composed of innovative didactic resources that will give a plus to your educational experience. The program, designed by a team of experts with a wide background, will allow you to explore aspects such as training planning and programming, modern performance strategies (velocity based training), nutrition, biomechanics and management of a cycling team. In addition, you will learn about load quantification models, the preparation of cyclists according to their category and the use of applications for physical monitoring. This knowledge will be essential for you to design quality training sessions that meet the needs of the athlete.

Get your degree with a Master's Degree in professional cycling

The demand in the field of cycling is increasing, which implies a wide preparation by coaches, responsible for managing different areas such as power, strength, nutrition, planning or biomechanics. That is why at TECH we focus on providing you with the tools required to enhance your skills in this area. We offer you the support of professional coaches, cyclists and nutritional advisors, who will provide the necessary keys to complement your study plan. Here, you will find the Relearning methodology, one of the most efficient for the rapid internalization of knowledge. With our educational scheme, you will learn aspects from training and strength to biomechanics or nutrition, training profiles and the most advanced adaptability plans. In turn, you will address the physiology of exercise in the cyclist, strength-power training and the modalities or categories of competitions. For all these reasons, we are your best educational option. At the end of the year of preparation, you will be able to plan high quality training and manage sections in elite cycling teams. Sign up now and pedal your way to the top of success!