Road cycling world champion Lizzie Armitstead has become the latest high profile athlete to join indoor bike manufacturer Wattbike as an ambassador.

Armitstead, who is the reigning World Road Race champion and has won numerous gold medals on the track, follows in the footsteps of Wattbike ambassadors including cyclist Matt Bottrill and rugby stars Tom Youngs and Tamara Taylor.

“I have used Wattbikes for testing and I’m looking forward to integrating the equipment fully into my training schedule,” said Armitstead.

“The difference between success and failure in cycling can come down to minute training details. The Wattbike’s level of measurability, reliability and accuracy allows me to monitor my training and progress in such detail that it makes a significant contribution to my performance success.”

The cycling star added that the Wattbike would be an “instrument tool” in her training programme as she gears up for a tilt at gold at the 2016 Rio Olympics. Armitstead said the Wattbike will enable her to accurately monitor her power outputs, train in the optimal zones in a controlled environment and measure progress to ensure every session pushes her performance forwards.

“Lizzie has an incredible drive, commitment and work ethic; she’s a fantastic role model and fit for Wattbike and we look forward to what the coming year holds,” said Wattbike commercial director Richard Baker.

“It’s a big year for both her and women’s cycling, and we hope draw on some of her experiences and support her in the best way we can; providing quality data and accurate tracking for her.”