Talking about recovery, sleep typically plays a big role. What does your approach to sleep look like? Do you get enough?

I try and get between eight and nine hours. I’m never too strict on myself, especially if I don’t get enough sleep, as I’ve had very good sessions and very good races from not a lot of sleep. As long as I keep a weekly average of over eight hours a night, I know I’ve done enough for my body.

Your hormones can also influence how recovered you feel – how do you approach this? Do you have periods? Does your training schedule allow for hormonal fluctuations, and if so, how do you manage those?

In 2019, my team and I worked with someone who helped me decide to come off the contraceptive pill. Afterwards, we allowed some time for my body to get back to its normal cycle (which happened quite quickly) and I found myself feeling much happier. As part of that process, I tracked my symptoms to help me predict if I would have my period around major races. I also recently started using an Oura ring which is helping me to further track my cycle and symptoms. I feel like I understand my body a lot more now.

Your preparation process for those major races must be complex – what do you do in the morning before a big competition?

My main priority is trying to be as organised as I can! I usually make sure I’ve got my kit ready, double-check my race bib and have a good breakfast so my body is fuelled. I also tend to listen to some music and stretch a little.

Team GB’s Kimberley Woods on the road to Paris 2024: “It’s important to spend time around the people who lift me up”