Ever wonder why the best became best? Do top endurance athletes have anything in common? The following is based on research and anecdotal information from several top performers; Most top endurance athletes come from modest backgrounds - they did not get anything handed to them for free. This will foster and encourage the will-power and attitude that is required - hard work and commitment is a must. Many also grew up in rural areas, a very low percentage come from larger metropolitan areas. Growing up in rural areas gives the children and young athletes access to the outdoors and outdoor activities. These activities leads to a high volume of "unplanned / non-organized" training. As I've mentioned again and again, this type of training prepared the young athlete for the high volumes of work that would be required later. Also, it creates a love for outdoor activity and movement. Most endurance sports require both training and competition outdoors. As a young athlete the top performer is active in several sports, not specializing until around 16-17 years of age.

Interestingly enough, most are not "wonder-children" and did not appear to be "olympic caliber" before they reached 18-22 years. In fact, the "wonder children" tend to burn out and quit before reaching the level required to be successful as a senior. The jump is enourmous from the Junior class to the Senior level. Athletes that are impatient and that lack the long-term view will not have the dedication to continue with the high volumes of training required. The young athlete that will become a top performer as a senior often shows strong attention to detail, focused training and the ability to set long-term goals. In a sport where you in most cases will not reach the top before you are between 25-32 years of age, it can be tough for a young competitor that is used to high placements as a Junior to continue with all the hard work required as senior when the results are not as "expected" during the first 3-4 years. The backing from home is also important - parents play a vital role.

Good attitudes and healthy values are created at home. Too much pressure to perform and reach results usually results in a burned-out ahtlete. Instead, top athletes come from families that encourage physical activity, good attitudes and a long-term view. The ability to find the positive and to turn everything into a motivational factor is an important value. Also, factors such as environment in the local club, the first coach and other infrastructural items affect the outcome of a young athlete.

I'm a full time endurance athlete (cycling) that is working towards the London Olympics in 2012. I maintain a blog, describing my ups and downs of training / racing: http://roadrace1.blogspot.com