Originally Posted by cedo
Assuming that he wants to be able to stay with these guys, which is the better approach -- Go out and ride with them really fast, but blow a gasket by being over LT for the full 7 miles? Or training at some lower level (80% of AT?) over time which builds the reserves? I'm not a training expert, but I have read that even though it is tempting to join a hammer fest to challenge yourself, riding beyond your ability is not the quickest way to improve your overall speed.
It's very difficult to push yourself on a solo ride to the levels you'll need to stay with a group above your head. I remember absolutely killing myself to STAY IN THE DRAFT last year when I was getting my legs back under me. For this reason, I would stick with the group if your asperations are to get faster.
Mark