Struggle

In the absence of his much-loved Leeds Chain Gang, Struggle’s Director Matt Mannakee has become a regular on the Donny Chain Gang (DCG) which moved to Zwift during lockdown.

Led by Russ Downing of Downing Cycling every Tuesday & Thursday, this indoor group ride has helped Matt fill the huge hole left by the lack of events during 2020. Therefore we’re really pleased to be supporting DCG this week. 

Our new Struggle Training Plan Coach Tom Townsend of Downing Cycling shares his optimum one-hour indoor training session, ideal for locked-down cyclists training for a Struggle. 

Tom’s Top Session

Tom said: “The climbs in Yorkshire are notorious for their undulating gradients featuring viciously steep sections. The ascents often ramp up to greater than 20% for prolonged periods; requiring all your fight just to keep the pedals turning.” 

“This massive effort will see you surging above your

With lockdown already limiting our Struggle sportive training, now the epic snow dumped outside our front door has us well and truly confined to the indoors.

Here at Struggle HQ we’re sticking two fingers up to the white stuff and maxing out our indoor training. Here’s our top tips for training for a Struggle sportive on a snow day.

1. Take a Test

It may not be a four-hour ride but we promise you an FTP test (Functional Threshold Power) will leave you lying on the...

We asked last year's gallant Struggle Moors' riders to review this super-tough sportive route. Read post-ride reviews of this monster parcours here... 

Simon Plant 5*****“Pure evil.... evil genius”

“WOW, what an impressive route. Everything from sign-in, signage, staff and tech help at feed-stations, and helpful marshals to post-ride food/drink was impeccable.

“Putting Rosedale Chimney at the end was just pure evil.... evil genius. A ride I will remember and re-review for many years to come. Thanks to all organisers and staff who made it possible.”