Gran Fondo Community

Piloting Ainara Albert to a European track cycling title

Massi-Baix Ter cyclist Ainara Albert secured the 2024 U23 European Track Cycling Championships title in the points race after an exceptional performance. She dominated the event, winning four sprints and lapping the entire field twice. Her victory demonstrated complete control, underpinned by her watt-saving aerodynamic position on the bike and exemplary tapering ahead of her season’s main goal.

These results were no accident. Ainara had elevated her training in 2024 to new levels thanks to the support of the Gran Fondo Community. However, even she was surprised by the extent of her improvement. According to Ainara, her success was based on stronger commitment, self-confidence, and teamwork between herself as an athlete and the Gran Fondo Community, which provided coaching and support. “At this point in my career, we are a perfect fit. The leap I’ve made is largely thanks to Gran Fondo,” she says.

Ainara embraced a more professional approach to her training under the guidance of coach Toni Miguel, learning to plan well, take care of herself while traveling, and maintain a positive mindset. Cycling coach Xavi Negre also contributed by introducing her to key aspects of a professional athlete’s life, including daily habits and specific strength work that didn’t impact her training volume or intensity on the bike. An altitude training camp prior to key competitions helped her reach peak form.

To arrive at peak performance, Ainara underwent a tapering phase for the first time in her life. “This involves reducing training volume and prioritizing rest while incorporating short, high-intensity sessions that mimic race efforts,” Xavi Negre says. Ainara adds: “I learned that tapering was crucial to reaching my fitness peak. On the day I became European champion, I felt great both physically and mentally.”

Earlier in the season, Ainara underwent a biomechanical study at Gran Fondo Community which, according to Miguel, saved her about ten watts on her threshold power. “Her position was already strong, but we improved efficiency and aerodynamics by refining a few elements. Such improvements make a substantial difference at her level,” Miguel explains.

Ainara feels much more comfortable on her bike after the adjustments, including adding a lift in her shoe to correct a leg length discrepancy, which improved her pedaling technique, alignment, and performance.

Gran Fondo Community, based in Palafrugell, Girona, is a premier cycling and health complex catering to cyclists of all levels. Alongside bike fitting and performance coaching, they offer a cycling shop, bike rentals, guided tours, training programs, and a café-restaurant with a vibrant cycling atmosphere.

This story is part of Nafent Magazine volume 13. Read the full story in our digital or paper magazine. Go to our webshop to get yours.