Training & Nutrition - Targeting a Century: Training Plan

Okay,

I have an supported century at the end of August I wish to attempt.

Last August I rode the Metric. Two months later, I rode the Natchez Trace from Nashville to Tupelo. About 230 miles in three days. After that, I stopped riding for a while, and haven't done any distance work until June of this year. Had seat issues. Pun intended.

I became a commuter, and have been riding 4 days a week to work, 12 miles round trip w/ hills. Usually work in a 7 mile extension lap before getting to the office. Sometimes two laps. Time is an issue.

Saturdays are my ride days, and I have been trying to increase seat time by 30 minutes each Saturday.

A typical week looks like this past week:

M= 12
T=20
W=26
T= OFF
F=12
S=35 (increasing by time each week)
S=8 (family ride with kids)

Your opinions please! Am I going to make it with this plan? Did I wait to late for distance riding? How would you adjust?

Here's an article on preparing for your first century: http://www.machka.net/century.htm

Also, if you have a look at the links on my Links page, you'll get more advice: http://www.machka.net/links.htm

Especially look at the UMCA link.

Great info, thanks!

Machka's articles are spot on.... here's a great book I read on the subject also: http://www.amazon.com/Bicycling-Magazines-Century-Training-Program/dp/1594861846

An update.

I am doing pretty well so far this month with staying on my training goals. Well on pace for 400 miles this month.

However, my plans have changed for Labor Day. I am going to the beach with the family. Gulf Shores, AL.

Gives me adequate time to prepare for a century later in the year, and hell, I am going to sit on the freakin' beach!

I felt like I could have made my end of August century, but it left me little room for error.

Thanks for the feedback.