Why Your Training Keeps Failing, lessons from Dan Lorang
Lessons from Bora Head of Performance.
When we look at professional athletes, it’s easy to imagine their success is built on secret knowledge or cutting-edge methods.
But as Dan Lorang, Head of Performance at Bora-Hansgrohe, shared with me recently, the pros succeed because they execute the basics exceptionally well.
And one of those basics is planning.
Here’s a common trap many of us fall into: you set up a perfect periodized training plan.
Build in week 1, push harder in weeks 2 and 3, then recover in week 4. On paper, it looks flawless. But life isn’t a spreadsheet.
A work deadline, a family commitment, or unexpected event can derail everything.
Suddenly, you’re in a recovery week without having built the fatigue to recover from—or worse, forcing yourself to cram workouts and heading straight for burnout.
Dan explained it simply:
"It makes no sense to build for week 1, build for week 2, and then you're set to build for week 3 but you have an event which disrupts that training week. Now you're into a recovery week, but you haven't built the fatigue to recover from."
The pros avoid this by starting with life first.
Before layering in races or training, they map out their non-negotiables—family events, sponsor obligations, travel, and recovery.
Only then do they add A-races, supporting races, and training blocks.
The result? A plan that adapts to their reality, not the other way around.
For amateurs, this approach is transformative.
Dan’s advice is clear:
"Planning is the biggest milestone. A good plan works with your life, not against it. The goal isn’t perfection—it’s consistency."
How to Plan Smarter:
Start With Your Life: Block off your non-negotiables first—work, family, and social commitments.
Adapt, Don’t Force It: Life busy this week? Shift to a recovery block. Have more time next week? Push harder then.
Consistency Beats Perfection: Forget rigid plans. Training success is about showing up, adapting, and building over time.
Weekly Challenge of the Week
This week, look back at the past year of your training.
How many plans fell apart when life got in the way?
How much better could you do with a more adaptable approach?
Dan’s insight was a game-changer for me, and I know it will be for you too.
Have a great weekend
Anthony Walsh
Find me on X, Instagram, Youtube, Apple, Spotify
Whenever you're ready, there are 3 ways I can help you:
One on One Call
If you’re stuck, or you’re looking for clarity, I offer one-on-one calls where we can take the insights I’ve learned from over 1,000 guests and tailor them to your situation. Sometimes, one piece of advice is all it takes to change your course entirely.
One on One Coaching
I work hands on with coaching clients. Using world class insights to deliver a pro level coaching experience to everyday athletes. Lose weight, prepare for your target event or answer that nagging question “how good could I be?”
Strength Training Course
Designed specifically for cyclists, it’s built on insights from hundreds of experts I’ve interviewed, streamlined into a clear, effective program. Whether you’re aiming to build power, prevent injuries, or simply ride stronger, this plan eliminates the guesswork and gives you the structure you need.