The Victorian Institute of Sport (VIS) has been helping cyclists tackle the challenges of isolation head on.

VIS cyclist and 2019 Monash graduate, Conor Rowley, has been one the many beneficiaries of this support.

The former commerce student has spent the past two months training with the VIS online cycling program - a program with an interesting twist.

Throughout the coronavirus pandemic, maintaining motivation has been a significant challenge for all athletes. For cyclists, with pools, gyms and velodromes shut down since March, training from home hasn't been easy.

However, the VIS online cycling program has found a creative way to inspire its athletes, whilst also encouraging them to focus on their life outside of sport.

The program has invited 'mystery guests' to join its weekly Zoom meetings and help grant the athletes new perspectives and insights on life.

Mystery guests have included ex-AFL player Lance Picioane, famous chef Ian Curley and a number of cycling greats including Dave Sanders, Ann Wilson, Simon Gerrans and Matthew Haymen.

Conor Rowley told the VIS that the mystery guests have been "awesome".

"They all had incredible messages, which were really inspiring when we needed it the most after all our racing was cancelled," he told the VIS.

The program has been led by Head Coach Shane Kelly OAM, endurance coach Vanessa Bof and sports scientist Nick Owen.

For athletes like Conor, it has provided a helpful insight into life beyond just sport - consistent with the VIS motto 'Success in Sport and Life'.

All the best of luck Conor!