Originally Posted by Cyclaholic
Thanks all for the feedback.
OK, here's the plan, tell me what you think...
My normal commute is 12 miles but I normaly do 20 miles on the way home. I cycle commute 5 days per week.
All morning rides, and Monday, Wednesday, and Friday nights are at fat burning (low HR) range, may increase the distance to 30 miles in the evenings.
Monday night commute is a 20 mile hammerfest, pushing the lactic threshold.
I'll increase the distance on Tuesday & Thursday nights to 40 miles in the cardio range.
Saturdays will be long training rides, starting at 60 miles, then adding 20 miles each week upto 140 miles i.e. 60 this week, 80 next week, 100 the week after, etc. which will leave me 4 or 5 Saturdays at 140 miles each, to get the times down.
Sunday is rest day.
Please critique this training plan, is it too ambitious?
I think it may be a bit much, and I would probably burnout if I tried to stick with weeks like this. Remember that recovery days are just as important (if not more) than the tough ones. I would pick at least one day that your commute both ways is very easy (65% mhr or less) and keep the distances shorter on this day. I think on your long rides, you're adding mileage too quickly and I don't think you need to get up to 140 miles, unless you just enjoy long distance and you have the time. I think I would increase the mileage by more like 10 miles per week and get up to 100 miles. I would stick to around 100-110 miles for your long ride and just get strong at that distance. My double century training never goes above 120 miles and usually consists of a 90-105 mile ride every Sunday. I think with your daily commuting and willingness to put in the time and effort you will do great on your 130 mile ride, probably be easier than your anticipating.