Feeling nervous before a race? You’re not alone! Even the most experienced cyclists get race day jitters—but the key is learning how to channel that energy into focus and performance.
The Century Road Club Association (CRCA) offers expert coaching and structured training sessions designed to help you manage pre-race nerves, improve your skills, and feel more confident on the start line.
1. Preparation is Key 🔑
🚴 Attend a CRCA Coaching Session – One of the best ways to feel prepared is to train with expert coaches. CRCA offers free coaching sessions covering race tactics, pack riding, sprinting, and more!
🚴 Know the Course – Familiarity breeds confidence. If possible, ride the Central Park course before race day to understand key sections like Harlem Hill, the rolling terrain on the West Side, and the final sprint locations.
🚴 Have a Race Day Routine – Create a pre-race checklist so you don’t forget anything. A solid routine helps you stay calm and focused instead of scrambling at the last minute.
💡 Pro Tip: CRCA's New Racer Clinics are perfect for beginners who want hands-on training in race scenarios.
2. Stay Calm & Focused 🧘♂️
✅ Breathe & Relax – Deep breathing exercises help lower heart rate and reduce stress before a race. Try inhale for 4 seconds, hold for 4 seconds, exhale for 4 seconds.
✅ Visualize Success – Close your eyes and picture yourself executing a strong race—good positioning, smooth turns, and a powerful sprint to the finish.
✅ Positive Self-Talk – Replace negative thoughts (“I’m not ready”) with confidence-building statements (“I’ve trained for this, I’m strong, I belong here”).
💡 Mindset Matters: Nervous energy is just excitement in disguise—use it to your advantage!
3. Focus on the Race, Not the Outcome 🎯
🏁 Break the race into sections – Instead of worrying about the entire race, focus on one segment at a time: the start, positioning, climbs, final sprint.
🏁 Stay Present – Avoid overthinking what might happen and instead focus on what’s happening right now—your breathing, cadence, and positioning.
🏁 Ride Smart, Not Stressed – Smooth, predictable riding is more important than being aggressive. Stay relaxed in the pack, hold your line, and conserve energy when needed.
💡 Pro Tip: Many riders find their nerves disappear once the race starts—the key is just making it to the start line!
4. Build Confidence Through CRCA Training 🚀
One of the best ways to calm nerves is to train in race-like conditions. CRCA offers FREE coaching sessions throughout the season to help you feel more confident and in control on race day.
CRCA Coaching Sessions Include:
📈 Beginner & Advanced Skills Clinics – Learn how to navigate a pack, handle corners, and stay safe in a race.
📈 Sprint & Climbing Sessions – Improve your power output, positioning, and sprint execution.
📈 Race Simulation & Tactics Workshops – Get real-world race experience in a controlled training environment.
💡 Take advantage of CRCA’s coaching—it’s one of the best membership perks!
5. Connect with the CRCA Community 🤝
🚴 Talk to Other Racers – You’re not the only one feeling pre-race nerves! Chat with teammates or other CRCA riders—you’ll find support, advice, and motivation.
🚴 Get Involved in Club Rides – The more you ride with a group, the more comfortable you’ll be in a race setting. CRCA sub-teams and training rides are a great way to build confidence and friendships.
🚴 Trust the Process – Every race is a learning experience. Even if things don’t go perfectly, you’ll gain valuable skills to improve for next time.
💡 Remember: Racing is about having fun, pushing yourself, and growing as a cyclist. Enjoy the ride!
Ready to Conquer Race Day? Join CRCA & Train Like a Pro! 🚴♂️🔥
The best way to eliminate pre-race nerves is to train, prepare, and surround yourself with a great cycling community—and CRCA has all the tools to help you succeed.
🔗 Check Out the CRCA Coaching Schedule & Sign Up for Training!
💪 Train Hard. Race Smart. Ride with Confidence. Join CRCA!
