**Van Aert Stays Motivated Despite Countless Comebacks: “Aim Higher Than the Target Because the Arrow Drops During Flight”**
Wout van Aert’s journey through the world of professional cycling is a testament to resilience, unwavering dedication, and relentless pursuit of excellence. The Belgian superstar from Visma | Lease a Bike has faced an array of setbacks—serious crashes, illnesses, and unforeseen circumstances—that could have derailed even the most determined athlete. Yet, Van Aert’s story is one of continuous comeback, driven by a mindset that sees obstacles not as endpoints but as opportunities to aim higher. His philosophy, encapsulated in the saying, “Aim higher than the target because the arrow drops during flight,” underscores his approach to endurance, perseverance, and personal growth.
The Unyielding Spirit of a Champion
In the high-stakes world of professional cycling, setbacks are inevitable. Van Aert’s career has been punctuated by moments where the path seemed blocked—crashes during training or races, health issues, and fluctuating form. Despite these hurdles, his motivation remains unwavering. Every setback fuels his desire to improve, to push boundaries, and to come back stronger.
His recent experiences exemplify this resilience. In 2024, Van Aert endured two serious crashes that could have ended his season prematurely. Instead of succumbing to frustration, he viewed each fall as a lesson—an opportunity to refine his technique, focus on recovery, and come back with renewed vigor. Following these crashes, he committed to meticulous recovery protocols and targeted training, exemplifying the mindset that challenges are part of the journey toward mastery.
The Power of Mental Fortitude
Van Aert’s mental toughness is a cornerstone of his success. The mental aspect of cycling—resisting fatigue, managing pain, and staying motivated through adversity—is often overlooked but is crucial for top-tier performance. For Van Aert, maintaining focus amidst adversity involves a blend of discipline, positive visualization, and a clear understanding of long-term goals.
His approach aligns with the philosophy that “aim higher than the target because the arrow drops during flight.” In essence, this means setting ambitions beyond immediate goals, knowing that obstacles will cause deviations, and that the true measure of success lies in perseverance and continuous effort. Van Aert’s mental resilience is reflected in his ability to stay motivated even when his body or circumstances seem to conspire against him.
The Role of Training and Preparation
Throughout 2023 and 2024, Van Aert’s commitment to meticulous training has been evident. His training logs, shared via Strava, reveal a relentless work ethic. In May 2024, he clocked an impressive 4,163 kilometers with 56,502 meters of elevation gain—an extraordinary volume that demonstrates his dedication to peak performance. This volume was driven by his participation in the Giro d’Italia, which required intense stage racing and high-altitude training.
The transition from May to June saw a strategic reduction in volume—2,366.7 kilometers with 37,001 meters of elevation—optimized to maintain fitness while allowing recovery and adaptation. His cumulative efforts over these months—totaling over 6,500 kilometers and nearly 94,000 meters of elevation—are a testament to his disciplined approach to training.
This level of preparation aligns with his previous seasons, where similar volumes of training laid the foundation for his exceptional performances at the Tour de France. In 2023, he covered over 6,370 kilometers with 99,144 meters of elevation gain, and in 2024, he has maintained a comparable workload. Such consistency underscores his understanding that achieving excellence is a marathon, not a sprint.
Overcoming Illness and Adversity
Despite rigorous training, Van Aert’s path has been fraught with unforeseen health issues. Just as he was gaining momentum in the Giro d’Italia and preparing for the Tour de France, he was struck by a stomach bug before the Belgian Championships—a disappointment that tested his mental resilience.
Illnesses like this serve as stark reminders that even the most prepared athletes are vulnerable. Yet, Van Aert’s response was characteristic of his approach: he accepted the setback, focused on recovery, and maintained a long-term perspective. His ability to stay motivated amidst setbacks is rooted in his understanding that setbacks are temporary and that the true goal is sustained excellence over the season.
The Philosophy of “Aim Higher”
Van Aert’s guiding philosophy, “Aim higher than the target because the arrow drops during flight,” is a profound lesson applicable far beyond cycling. It emphasizes the importance of setting lofty goals, recognizing that obstacles and deviations are inevitable, and maintaining focus on the broader vision. This mindset encourages athletes and individuals alike to push beyond perceived limits, to embrace failure as part of growth, and to remain committed despite challenges.
In Van Aert’s case, this philosophy manifests in his relentless pursuit of victory at the Tour de France and other major races. His training, recovery, and mental attitude are all infused with the understanding that setbacks are temporary and that aiming higher ensures continuous progress.
Looking Ahead to the 2025 Tour de France
With the Tour de France set to commence on July 5 in Lille, Van Aert is determined to be in top shape. His rigorous training, strategic planning, and unwavering motivation position him as a formidable contender. The road to victory is never straightforward, but Van Aert’s resilience and philosophy of aiming higher serve as guiding lights.
He recognizes that success is a moving target, and that the real victory lies in the effort, perseverance, and attitude maintained throughout the season. His journey exemplifies that setbacks are simply part of the larger picture—a picture that he continues to paint with determination and hope.
Wout van Aert’s story is a shining example of how perseverance, mental toughness, and a strategic mindset can overcome countless setbacks. His unwavering motivation, reinforced by the philosophy to “aim higher than the target because the arrow drops during flight,” inspires athletes and enthusiasts worldwide. As he prepares for the 2025 Tour de France, his journey reminds us all that resilience is the key to turning adversity into achievement. No matter the obstacles, Van Aert’s focus remains fixed on the horizon—ever aiming higher, ever pushing forward.
