Michael Illing

"For anyone that is thinking of using Progressive Coaching Systems (PCS) to improve their fitness I would tell them to sign up, it is worth every dollar. Donna is very helpful and has gotten me results faster than I could have imagined. She is very approachable, whether to answer questions about my training or even

How long have you been riding mountain bikes:
I have been riding mountain bikes for the last 13 years but have only recently changed my focus from Downhill Mountain biking to Cross Country Mountain biking (XCO) in the last 2 years.

How long have you been coached by PCS:
Since September 2011 – around about 18 months

What do you like about your PCS training program:
The training program is really easy to follow and is tailored to your work/living needs.

What do you like about your coach:
Donna is very helpful and has gotten me results faster than I could have imagined. She is very approachable, whether to answer questions about my training or even a social chat.  Donna and her husband Matt are often at events to provide support and encouragement that help me push through the race.

What have been your goals and have you achieved them:
I have achieved a lot of my goals already.  I went from racing B grade XCO at state level races at the start of my cycling career to racing elite level XCO at national level races in only 6 months.  My best result has been 2nd at the recent National Round in Mt Buller in the XC Eliminator. I have now set big goals to race at a World Cup in 2013 and I know Donna will get me there.

What things do you currently do in your training that are keys to your success:
Every part of the program is so important so I follow the program to the best of my ability.  I’ve learnt it’s important to eat right, stretch a lot and importantly spend time on the bike.

What is your biggest challenge, and what do you do to manage this challenge:
My biggest challenge is time. With working a full time job and training a lot it doesn’t leave much time to socialise with friends etc. To manage this problem I try to be as efficient as possible with my training and work close with Donna to make sure I still rest enough.

Final word from Michael:
For anyone that is thinking of using Progressive Coaching Systems (PCS) to improve their fitness I would tell them to sign up, it is worth every dollar. PCS have a fantastic team who are really helpful, really knowledgeable and up to date with all the latest information on training. I have been working close with Donna Dall for the last 18 months and have already achieved more goals than I thought was possible in such a small time.  I am planning to continue working with her for a lot longer and know she will get me to the level I need to be at to achieve all of my goals.