If you work on an irregular shift pattern then you’ll likely find it even more difficult to regulate your training, but, even if that’s not the case, work, family and your social life can make it difficult to build up a consistent block of training.

However, Downing says the pro lifestyle is often based around similar ‘shifts’, with training blocks followed by rest days. For example, a pro rider at a training camp may ride four big days, packed with efforts, and then use the next two for rest and recovery.

“You can relate that to people who work, and particularly if you work shifts,” Downing explains. “They may be able to do three or four days of back-to-back training, and then in the next four days they may not be able to ride at all. That can be used for recovery.

“While you may be still going to work, so it’s not a true rest, you can have those days as rest time off the bike,” he continues, with planning again the key to ensuring that you can get on the bike when possible and those days aren’t wasted.

Finally, if you are embarking on a regular training programme then there’s a good chance you will be training in the evening. So how can you fuel throughout the day to ensure you’re in a position to make the most of your session?