Changing Gear

A MULITISPORT DEVELOPMENT PROGRAMME AIMS TO CREATE CHAMPIONS OF THE FUTURE  

The Changing Gear programme, has now developed into a very successful programme spanning two years. Registration for the summer term "Changing Gear" programme will take place at the YMCA on the International Campus, Upper Hutt on Tuesday 13th October 2009 at 6.30am. The second session of the week will take place at 4.3pm on Thursday afternoon.

The Changing Gear is primarily a Secondary School Endurance/Multi-Sport programme, using cycling as the principle discipline to encourage children to get involved in triathlon or road/track/mountain biking cycling and running.

The programme was founded on a community partnership with Activation (Upper Hutt City Council), Upper Hutt Secondary Schools (although not exclusive), YMCA (based at the New Zealand International Campus) and Cyclosport NZ Ltd (as the professional service provider).

Eddie Bright, Director of CycloSport, who has in the past represented New Zealand at multisport and is a nationally recognised cycling coach says "the scheme involves a structured and graduated development programme that focuses on preparing the students for participation in identified National Secondary School Championship events."  Additionally, liaison with local clubs will be established to facilitate local competition and further training opportunities across the range of disciplines required to achieve individual aspirations and goals.  

The programme involves a regular training and coaching programme during the school term:

  • Tuesday at 6.30am to 7.25am with training at the YMCA (NZIC or similar venue).

  • Thursday 4.30 pm to 6pm. A race programme including criteriums, time trials and hill climbs.

  • Training includes

  • Turbo training sessions

  • Stretching and core stability

  • Nutrition

  • Periodised training programme planning

  • Self monitoring

  • Field testing

  • Use of heart rate monitors

  • Recovery regimes

  • Time management

Eddie says "The students will be developed and introduced to competition through a series of local and regional "lead in" events tailored towards optimum enjoyment and performances at national events. The project will provide guidance, coaching and oversight of the students at these events".

The three principal events of focus at national level are:

  • National Secondary Schools Triathlon Champions in 2010

  • National Duathlon Championships 2010

  • National Secondary Schools Cycling Championships Manfeild September 2010 

The cost of the programme is $115 per person per term.

Newcomers are most welcome to join the programme for the summer term. For further information or clarification on any aspect, contact Eddie on 021 891 006