Training & Nutrition - Interval Question

6 weeks ago, I decided that I was not going ride as long of rides that took so much time in order to have some more time do other stuff. I've increased my average speed by about 2 mph and have gotten out of my weight loss plateau. I am doing 2 X 20's and sprints during the tempo rides. I spend about 1:10 on those rides and then on recovery days I go about an hour and a half.

I wonder how my planned distance rides are going to fare when I try the distance stuff?

the intervals you're doing now will help your long distance rides as well. all those hills you encounter are going to be a lot easier, headwinds won't burn you out, and you'll be able to kick up the pace when you need to. just do them in moderation, no more than once or twice a week. keep a good mix of longer endurance rides, some shorter intervals, some tempo work, and recovery rides and you'll be golden.

If you do those long rides at the same pace as before, you'll be at a lower-percentage of your LT than before. You'll be able to go farther with less effort (as long as you eat enough). Or, you can ride at the same relative intensity as before, 2-mph faster, and will be able to cover more distance in the same amount of time...