I previously wrote about Vekta’s new adaptive training plans. Since then, the platform has expanded significantly, adding a wide range of structured programmes for athletes to purchase and follow.
One of these is the “Gran Fondo” training plan, created by Matteo Cigala and priced at €129.99.
This is a 16-week personalised training programme designed for endurance cyclists preparing for long-distance events such as Gran Fondos, particularly those featuring significant climbing. The plan is tailored for events ranging from 80–160 km with 1,500–3,000 metres of elevation, and focuses on building:
- Durable endurance
- Sustained climbing power
- The ability to handle repeated efforts across varied terrain
What makes this programme especially compelling is that it is based on the same training principles that have delivered Matteo multiple major Gran Fondo victories.
To put that into context:
- 2× winner of the Strade Bianche Gran Fondo (last three editions)
- 3rd place in the latest Strade Bianche edition (middle distance)
- 2022 European Gran Fondo Champion
- 2023 UCI Gran Fondo & Gravel Vice World Champion
- 2023 Italian Gravel Champion
You could reasonably describe him as the “Tadej Pogačar of amateur cycling.”
To learn more, I caught up with Matteo to discuss both his background and his approach to coaching.
About Matteo Cigala
Speaking with Matteo, it became clear that his success as an athlete is built on two key pillars: experience and structured training.
His cycling journey began at just five years old, inspired by a neighbour’s collection of trophies. He quickly rose through the Italian youth ranks, reaching the National Team and ranking among the top three junior riders in Italy.
However, his transition to the Under-23 category was disrupted by a prolonged battle with mononucleosis (glandular fever), combined with frustration at a racing scene where older, more established riders competed without professional contracts. Disillusioned, Matteo stepped away from racing and moved to Ireland to pursue university studies.
It was in Ireland that everything changed.
Noticing a lack of structure compared to northern Italy, Matteo began coaching riders in his local club. During this period, he refined his philosophy around structured training—laying the foundations for his coaching business.
After completing his studies, and with a growing client base, Matteo transitioned into full-time coaching. From there, his business expanded naturally.
Wanting to introduce his clients to his home roads around Lake Garda, he began organising training camps. These quickly evolved into full cycling tours. As Matteo explained “This year is the 10th anniversary of my first tour. Now we run 12 to 13 tours a year, starting in February in the Algarve and finishing in October in Lake Como.”
To further support his athletes, he also launched an online store, supplying power meters and high-end components – becoming a major retailer in Ireland, particularly during the COVID-era cycling boom.
About His Coaching
Matteo’s coaching philosophy is centred on long-term development, not quick fixes.
One-to-One Coaching (Minimum 6 Months)
He does not take on short-term clients, as meaningful physiological progress and lasting habits require at least six months.
Coaching is priced at €150 per month and follows a holistic approach, recognising that performance goes far beyond the bike. It incorporates:
- Strength training
- Nutrition
- Mental accountability
This is a true one-to-one coaching experience, where your training plan is built and adjusted weekly based on your progress, feedback, and evolving needs—ensuring it remains fully personalised and aligned with your goals.
Personalised 12-Week Training Plans
For athletes who may not have the budget for ongoing coaching, Matteo also offers fixed-duration plans.
These 12-week programmes are:
- Built specifically around your availability, fitness level, and goals
- Fully structured with clear progression and key sessions
- Designed to prepare you for a specific event
The key difference is that the plan is created in advance, with no ongoing feedback or adjustments.
Gran Fondo Adaptive Training Plan
Recognising the potential of AI-driven training, Matteo has also developed an adaptive training plan on Vekta, offering a more accessible option for athletes.
This plan:
- Automatically adjusts as you progress
- Uses Critical Power (CP) and anaerobic work capacity to track fitness and fatigue
- Updates training zones weekly based on real-world performance
It effectively bridges the gap between static plans and one-to-one coaching.
Structured Training in Practice
To showcase the type of sessions included in the 16-week Gran Fondo programme, Matteo has selected four workouts, which will be available on Zwift for you to join and try.
There will be four sessions to try, they will be weekly with the first being held on Sunday 12th April at 3:00pm BST / 4:00pm CEST. To join, click here.
Summary
Matteo’s success is no coincidence.
Through years of experience, consistent training (typically 10–14 hours per week), the right equipment, and aligning his race calendar with his cycling tours, he has been able to consistently perform—and win—at the highest level of Gran Fondo competition.
The Gran Fondo training plan reflects this same approach.
It is a structured, proven programme, designed not just from theory, but from real-world success—giving athletes a clear and affordable pathway to improve their performance in long-distance events.
For more information:
https://coaching.cigalacycling.com/
