He hasn’t had much downtime since his big win at the Giro d’Italia, but Team Garmin’s Ryder Hesjedal reflects on his training and gives some insight into the mental and physical prep required to compete at the pro level.

How did the Edge 800 help in your training for the Giro?
The size of the screen and the way I can customize my data was very important in my training for the Giro. Being able to see time, distance, power, heart rate, and average power all on one screen is great when training for TTs, doing intervals and when climbing. Having all of that data at my fingertips helps me see and assess how I’m going.

Favorite scenes or fan interactions you had at the Giro?
I think one of the best moments of the Giro was winning the team time trial and getting Ramunas in the pink jersey. To stand on top of the podium as a team was really special. It was also great to see all the Canadian fans at the Giro – when you’re on a tough climb and you catch a glimpse of the Canadian flag it just gives you that extra bit of motivation to know that so many great people are supporting you. I was humbled by all of the support we received throughout the race.

You stated that your goal was to take the win at the Giro. What’s the most important factor that got you there? Physical prep and training or mental toughness?
Both! Plus the support of my team. We were all focused on the goals we set out and that collective focus lifted me to new heights.
 
What’s your favorite feature on the Edge 800 for training or racing?
The easy-to-use display and touchscreen. Makes it too easy.
 
What about Garmin Connect — tell us a little about how you use the site for ride analysis or sharing data.
Garmin Connect is a great tool because it allows our fans to see what we’re doing – they’re able to look at our data and that’s something we as riders hope the fans get really excited about.
 
Now that you have won the Giro, what are your goals for the remainder of the 2012 season?
To be honest, right now I’m still enjoying winning the Giro! The Tour has always been a goal of mine but we have to look at where I’m at, what the team needs and what makes sense for everyone. I’ve already done about 40 race days this season, which is a lot. I would also love to represent Canada at the Olympics, so we will have to see how that plays out too, if I get selected. Right now, I’m enjoying a bit of rest and of course, the win. Tonight I’m hosting a little celebration in Girona to thank my teammates and all of the staff who helped me through the Giro, so a goal is to enjoy that too and to thank my teammates and sponsors like Garmin who believed in me.

What do you want people to know about Ryder Hesjedal?
That I grew up on the bike and it has opened many doors for me. I hope people discover the many benefits cycling can offer.