Base miles are usually associated with those training for competition or to get into condition for specific events, i.e. a double century. Simply put "base miles" are miles/time spent riding at a level that is easier or at less effort than the usual ride and at a longer duration. It allows the body to reset from the previous season and to increase the aerobic capacity of the body's system for when added stresses are introduced later and to increase it's ability to burn stored fuel (fat) as well as fuel consumed during the ride. As the season progresses and the rider needs to begin riding faster and harder, Z5 intervals, LT intervals are added along with increasingly longer Z3 rides. The actual training time will decrease as the intensity ramps up. The time in the saddle during the base miles phase allows the rider to put stresses on the system, later on, without breaking down due to not having the aerobic staying ability.
Last edited by Allegheny Jet; 01-11-11 at 09:36 AM.