Stay Home Stories: Jonas Vingegaard
In the column ‘Stay Home Stories’, the cyclists of Team Jumbo-Visma talk about their lives and current activities now there is no racing until further notice.
Stay Home Story with Jonas Vingegaard
How are you?
It’s going well, although it is a strange situation we are in. A situation we have never experienced before. But it is also a good time to be at home with my girlfriend Trine and our families. Obviously I miss the races, but I also learn to appreciate other things more right now. It is what it is. We have to make the best of it
What do your workouts and training look like at the moment?
The focus in my training is mainly on maintaining my fitness level. I stick to my normal training program as much as possible. To improve my basic level I mainly focus on longer endurance training rides and less on intensity. I also work a lot on my strength. It strengthens me both physically and mentally. I also regularly participate in e-races and social rides on the Tacx. Just like most of my teammates. That is also a lot of fun to do. My shape is very good at the moment and I look forward to getting back to real work as soon as possible.
How do you get on with your days?
By relaxing a lot, actually. In addition, my girlfriend and I do the necessary projects in and around the house. We do that by doing little bits every day. For example, last week we painted a part of the house, this week a sofa. We are also making a new garage with the help of my parents-in-law and I am also creating my own gym.
How do you motivate yourself?
I have no problem in motivating myself. I get motivation from many things. I am doing very well for the moment and my shape is also very good, I have noticed during my training. I am very focused and I continuously try to challenge and improve myself in different parts. That alone is very motivating.
Which series or movies are you watching at the moment?
My girlfriend Trine and I watch a few series in the evening. A little bit of everything actually. It just depends on what’s on the TV that night. For example, we watch Inspector Barnaby in Midsomer Murders. That’s a very good British detective series. In addition, we also watch many Crime Scene Investigation series. Now that we are also working a lot in and around our house, we also regularly watch the Danish version of the program in which houses and/or apartments are getting renovated. It’s a good program for getting new ideas.
Which songs do you play on your playlist by default?
I listen to a wide variety of music. A little bit of everything, actually. From old Danish music to the classical and present pop, rock and dance music. It really depends on whether I want to relax or listen to intense music. One of my favourite songs is Life is a Highway, the original was recorded by Tom Cochrane. In the meantime, a number of remakes have been made.
Do you have any tips for people to stay fit?
Above all, keep it simple. So short, but intense sessions. Try to do that a few times a week. If you constantly go for longer workout sessions, you could get to the point that you didn’t like it anymore or that you will push yourself too far. Focus in your workouts not only on working on your strengths, but also on improving your weaker points.
What is your favourite dish?
I eat quite varied and healthily. And I actually like a lot. But mashed potatoes with beef and stroganoff is my big favourite. I really enjoy that. Also dishes which include salmon please me.
What other sports do you like?
I’m actually a big fan of badminton. Always have been. It’s a nice sport. Especially for playing it yourself, not to watch it on TV. That’s really something I enjoy. Maybe I will start doing this later after my cycling career. I even think that if I wasn’t a professional cyclist I would already be playing this now. I also watch football. I am a huge Liverpool fan. I love to see them play. Last year I went to the UK with Trine to see them play at Anfield. It was a magical and beautiful experience; I loved the atmosphere.
What is your favourite game?
I hardly ever play video games or board games. I don’t even have a PlayStation at home, for example. However, we do play different types of card games or a strategic game called Sequence. Especially, Game of 500 is very popular. It’s a bit similar to bridge. You win the game by earning 500 points or forcing your opponents to -500 points. It is quite difficult, but very entertaining.
Which apps on your phone are running in overtime?
I don’t use my phone very much except for phonecalls and Whatsapp. Also, I am not really active on social media. I do have a Facebook and an Instagram account, but I am not on Twitter. I also use the Jumbo Foodcoach app to search for various dishes, training peaks and some news and weather apps to stay informed.
What is your guilty pleasure?
It may sound cliche, but ice cream. And especially popsicles and soda ice cream.