{"id":30574,"title":"Introduction to kermis racing","description":"An introduction to Belgian Kermis racing for racing cyclists, written by the Flandrien Hotel. Kermis, or Kermesse, racing is the main type of cycling road race in Belgium.","content":"

Kermis, or Kermesse, racing is the staple of Belgian cycle racing. What is it and how can you best prepare for a racing trip to Flanders?<\/p>

\"Flandrien<\/u><\/a>Jamie Anderson of the Flandrien Hotel<\/strong><\/a> provides his insight into the exciting and demanding world of Belgian Kermis racing.<\/p>

\"ImageImage: Bram van Lent<\/em><\/p>

What are kermis races?<\/h2>

A cycling religion<\/h3>

In Flanders where cycling is almost like a religion, it\u2019s no surprise that the most common form of road racing, Kermis racing, originated as a religious festival. The word Kermis is often used interchangeably with Kermesse. Both are regional variants of the Dutch language for Kerk (a church) and Mis (a Mass).<\/p>

The first Kermis is said to have originated in fourteenth-century Belgium. Originally, occasions to honour a local church\u2019s patron saint as well as a fund-raiser for the church, they morphed over time into secular events.<\/p>

Some traditional Kermis still take place in Flanders which might include a fun fair, entertainment and quite a bit of drinking. As part of the local celebrations, a bike race would be based upon the town and village using a small circuit that followed the twists and turns of the countryside.<\/p>

Nowadays, only a few Kermis races are connected with local celebrations but even the most humble event will have music, commentary and a bar.<\/p>

What\u2019s a kermis race like?<\/h3>

Belgian Kermis races are an exciting and fast-paced form of bike racing. They typically consist of a short, multi-lap circuit course with tight corners, town centre obstacles, fast straightaways, rough or cobbled roads and intense competition.<\/p>

\"CarbonbikeCarbonbike Giordana rider <\/em>Julien Van de Brande<\/em><\/strong><\/a> demonstrates perfect cornering technique. Image: Bram van Lent<\/em><\/p>

In order to succeed in Belgian Kermis racing, cyclists must possess a combination of speed, endurance, and tactical skill. Apart from the professional level, the default type of road race in Flanders is a Kermis.<\/p>

Whether you\u2019re an elite-level amateur male or female, a masters racer or a junior, if you ride a race in Belgium, it will almost certainly be a Kermis.<\/p>

\u201c<\/em>it can be quite a shock riding your first Kermis\u201d<\/p><\/blockquote>

Unless you have a background in criterium racing, it can be quite a shock riding your first Kermis. The ferocity of attacks, the constant sprinting out of corners and the closeness with which riders position themselves to one another can be quite intimidating.<\/p>

One noticeable difference between road races in most other countries is that the attacks start from the gun which means the pace is really high. Rider after rider will jump away from the front of the bunch.<\/p>

On a typical course with lots of bends, it means the riders at the back are constantly sprinting flat out of the corners just to stay in contact. Eventually, the weaker riders will slip to the back and be dropped.<\/p>

Only once a break has been properly established, will the pace drop. Just keeping near the front and being able to hang on is hard enough for most riders.<\/p>

It\u2019s no wonder that Flanders produces so many professional cyclists. If you don\u2019t give it a go at least once, you\u2019ll probably regret it.<\/p>

Training for kermis races<\/h2>

Proper training preparation is key to achieving success in these demanding events. In this first section, we\u2019ll discuss some essential training strategies for cyclists looking to excel in Kermis racing.<\/p>

Build endurance<\/h3>

Kermis races can be physically demanding, often lasting for just 45-90 minutes at very high intensity. To prepare for this level of exertion, cyclists need to build their endurance through a combination of long, steady rides and interval training.<\/p>

Endurance rides at a moderate pace will help to build your aerobic base and improve your endurance, while interval training will enhance your speed and power.<\/p>

\"ImaeExpect to ride close to your competitors. Image: Bram van Lent<\/em><\/p>

Interval training involves alternating periods of high-intensity effort with periods of rest or low-intensity recovery. For Kermis racing, interval training should focus on short, intense efforts with short recovery periods (also known as micro intervals).<\/p>

These efforts should mimic the demands of Kermis racing, with explosive accelerations, high-intensity sprints and rapid changes in pace.<\/p>

Improve sprinting ability<\/h3>

In Kermis racing, a strong finishing sprint is essential to success. To boost your sprinting ability, you should incorporate sprint intervals into your training regimen.<\/p>

Sprint intervals involve sprinting all out for short periods of time, followed by a period of rest or low-intensity recovery. These intervals should be relatively short, typically lasting between 10 and 30 seconds.<\/p>

To maximize the benefits of sprint training, you should focus on explosive power and technique. Practice explosive power by starting your sprints from a standing position or a slow roll, and focus on maintaining a smooth, efficient pedal stroke.<\/p>

It's also important to work on your technique, including your body position, breathing, and pacing.<\/p>

Practice cornering<\/h3>

Cornering is a critical skill for Kermis racing and something that many visiting riders struggle with. To improve your cornering ability, you should practice riding through tight turns at high speeds. This can be done on a closed circuit or on the road, but always prioritize safety and be mindful of traffic and other hazards.<\/p>

To improve your cornering technique, focus on your body position and line selection. Lean your bike into the turn while keeping your body upright and try to take the smoothest possible line through the turn. Be sure to brake before entering the turn, and accelerate smoothly as you exit.<\/p>

Kermis racing tactics<\/h2>

Train as a team<\/h3>

Kermis racing is often a team sport, with riders working together to support each other and achieve a common goal. To prepare for Kermis racing, it's important to train with your team and develop a sense of teamwork and communication.<\/p>

\"RidersHaving a strong sprint is important in Kermis racing. Image: Bram van Lent<\/em><\/p>

Team training can include practising drafting and paceline riding, where riders take turns leading the group to conserve energy and maintain speed. It can also involve discussing team tactics, such as setting up lead-outs for sprinters or working together to break away from the peloton.<\/p>

Develop mental toughness<\/h3>

Kermis racing is not just physically demanding, but mentally challenging as well. Races can be intense and highly competitive, and riders must be able to stay focused and mentally tough in order to succeed.<\/p>

\"VisualHave you ever fancied living the dream and racing in Flanders? Even if you're on the wrong side of forty there's plenty of racing to enjoy. Read our guide to masters road racing in Belgium<\/strong><\/a> to find out how easy it is to take part.<\/p>

\"Masters<\/u><\/a><\/p>

\"VisualTo develop mental toughness, practice visualization and positive self-talk. Visualize yourself succeeding in the race, including executing your tactics and crossing the finish line in first place. Use positive self-talk to reinforce your confidence and focus, and stay focused on your goals throughout the race.<\/p>

Strategy<\/h3>

Know the course: The first and most crucial step in developing a winning strategy for a Kermis race is to understand the course. Kermis races often have tight turns, narrow roads, and obstacles that require quick reflexes and agility.<\/p>

Knowing the layout of the course beforehand can help you plan your moves and anticipate any obstacles that may come your way. Be sure to ride the circuit before each race. Focus on your strengths: Focus on your strengths. If you are a sprinter, focus on conserving your energy during the early stages of the race and position yourself well for the final sprint.<\/p>

Make the breakaway: Be very aware of gaps opening between riders. Once a gap grows to more than 3-4 bike lengths, the effort required to close increases significantly and can result in you missing a breakaway.<\/p>

Work as a team: Kermis racing is a team sport, and working together can give you a significant advantage. If you are racing with a team, communicate with your teammates before the start and work together to achieve your goals.<\/p>

Riding together can help you to maintain a position or to close a gap, and if one of your teammates makes a move, you can support them by blocking your competitors.<\/p>

Tactics<\/h3>

Attacks: Attacks are a common tactic in Kermis racing and typically start in the very first lap of racing. This can be a shock to international riders who come from countries where a more defensive style of riding is typical.<\/p>

\u201cBe prepared to ride on the limit for the first 35-40 minutes\u201d<\/p><\/blockquote>

Be prepared to ride on the limit for the first 35-40 minutes, after which the pace often slows before attacks begin again in the final 2-3 laps.<\/p>

Positioning: Positioning is crucial in Kermis racing. It is essential to be in the right position at the right time to make a move or respond to a move. Always position yourself near the front of the pack (front 10-15 riders) to avoid crashes and stay out of trouble. Riders only get dropped from the back. Never the front.<\/p>

Racing in a breakaway: Once in a breakaway be careful not to work too hard \u2013 only ever work as hard as the least hard-working rider if the break goes early. Be sure to arrange for time gaps to be communicated from your support crew beside the road.<\/p>

As the gap grows there is less of a need to work hard, especially in the final laps. If in a smaller breakaway group, be conscious about your tactics in the later stages of the race \u2013 will you close the gaps to attacking riders or leave it to other riders to do so?<\/p>

Cornering: Cornering is a critical skill in Kermis racing and is often an area in which international riders are less skilled due to racing in countries with wider roads and fewer corners.<\/p>

Take the corners as smoothly and efficiently as possible and avoid unnecessary braking. This will help you maintain your speed and conserve energy. Poor cornering can result in you losing position, and once you are at the back of the peloton then the risk of getting dropped increases significantly.<\/p>

\"VisualWe check out the Flandrien Hotel. If you're looking for somewhere to stay in Belgium's cycling heartland, read our review of the hotel dedicated to cyclists<\/strong><\/a>.<\/p>

\"Review<\/u><\/a>\"Visual<\/p>

Sprinting: Sprinting is often the deciding factor in Kermis racing. To win a sprint, position yourself well before the final stretch (front 3-7 riders) and conserve your energy until the final push. Be sure to study the final 500 metres of the course to choose the best sprint line.<\/p>

8 August 2023, Jamie Anderson.<\/p>

Thanks to Fien De Paepe of the Carbonbike Giordana<\/strong><\/a> team and Bram van Lent<\/strong><\/a>.
\"Rijden<\/p>

NEVER MISS OUT<\/strong><\/h3>

Subscribe for free<\/strong><\/a>\u00a0to get all our latest stories and news by email. We run free competitions for subscribers too.<\/p>

We won't bombard you with special offers. We don't want to send you junk as much as you don't want to receive it.<\/p>

\"Image<\/u><\/a><\/p>","urlTitle":"introduction-to-kermis-racing","url":"\/blog\/introduction-to-kermis-racing\/","editListUrl":"\/my-blogs","editUrl":"\/my-blogs\/edit\/introduction-to-kermis-racing\/","fullUrl":"https:\/\/rijden.uk\/blog\/introduction-to-kermis-racing\/","featured":false,"published":true,"showOnSitemap":true,"hidden":false,"visibility":null,"createdAt":1691398535,"updatedAt":1693567964,"publishedAt":1693567964,"lastReadAt":null,"division":{"id":61205,"name":"Rijden_2"},"tags":[{"id":1216,"code":"road-racing","name":"RoadRacing","url":"\/blog\/tagged\/road-racing\/"},{"id":1874,"code":"guides","name":"Guides","url":"\/blog\/tagged\/guides\/"}],"metaImage":{"original":"https:\/\/images.podos.io\/cli2wlhx38mvkslv8ld4fc5ngz9ivzn6dkjvoowrfvt5zw9t.jpeg","thumbnail":"https:\/\/images.podos.io\/cli2wlhx38mvkslv8ld4fc5ngz9ivzn6dkjvoowrfvt5zw9t.jpeg.jpg?w=1140&h=855","banner":"https:\/\/images.podos.io\/cli2wlhx38mvkslv8ld4fc5ngz9ivzn6dkjvoowrfvt5zw9t.jpeg.jpg?w=1920&h=1440"},"metaTitle":"Introduction to Kermis Racing in Belgium | Rijden","metaDescription":"Kermis, or Kermesse, racing is the staple of Belgian cycle racing. What is it and how can you best prepare for a racing trip to Flanders?","keyPhraseCampaignId":13186,"series":[],"similarReads":[{"id":9561,"title":"Guide to Belgian beer","url":"\/blog\/beer-guide-part-2\/","urlTitle":"beer-guide-part-2","division":61205,"description":"Here at Rijden, we love Belgian beer. There's not much better than settling down to watch one of cycling's Spring classics or a top cyclocross race with a Belgian beer in hand. In this article, we describe the different types of Belgian beer.","published":true,"metaImage":{"thumbnail":"https:\/\/images.podos.io\/utk2mdpa3ebapxomtdmcqm9xze7zpfjpxgzd2ysbsverygri.jpeg.jpg?w=1140&h=855","banner":"https:\/\/images.podos.io\/utk2mdpa3ebapxomtdmcqm9xze7zpfjpxgzd2ysbsverygri.jpeg.jpg?w=1920&h=1440"},"hidden":0},{"id":10141,"title":"Soviet Invasion","url":"\/blog\/goodwood-1982\/","urlTitle":"goodwood-1982","division":61205,"description":"The first of three stories about the 1982 World Cycling Championships which was held at Goodwood. Sleepy Sussex was the stage for a minor invasion of Soviet cyclists and their KGB minders.","published":true,"metaImage":{"thumbnail":"https:\/\/images.podos.io\/ysyhin4y6wh2tspjf8niotiyhghaolmac7ucoddcx2tlpzmt.jpeg.jpg?w=1140&h=855","banner":"https:\/\/images.podos.io\/ysyhin4y6wh2tspjf8niotiyhghaolmac7ucoddcx2tlpzmt.jpeg.jpg?w=1920&h=1440"},"hidden":0},{"id":10158,"title":"Goodwood 1982 - Amateur titles","url":"\/blog\/goodwood-1982-part-two\/","urlTitle":"goodwood-1982-part-two","division":61205,"description":"The UCI Cycling World Championships were held in England in 1982, with the road races at Goodwood in West Sussex. In the second part, we report on a rare British victory and socialist love.","published":true,"metaImage":{"thumbnail":"https:\/\/images.podos.io\/skobdoxdohlydrehwbak2vqm7psto0d1hfgryg4dee8axtqn.jpeg.jpg?w=1140&h=855","banner":"https:\/\/images.podos.io\/skobdoxdohlydrehwbak2vqm7psto0d1hfgryg4dee8axtqn.jpeg.jpg?w=1920&h=1440"},"hidden":0}],"labels":[]}