I've been using Strava as my primary app to track rides and capture data. It's served its purpose and I've been quite happy with it. However, as I am now getting more serious about my riding and wanting to implement a structured training schedule I'm looking at TrainingPeaks. I ride about 300 miles per week, 90% tarmac, a mix of group paceline rides and solo rides, 100% outside on actual roads (no indoor trainer).

My primary goal for 2021 is to gain strength and speed, but still maintain a focus on endurance (as I love riding centuries). This past weekend I rode in my first 100-mile event since getting back on the bike in 2019. I rode my Surly Ogre, which weighs about 40 lb., but is extremely comfortable. The other reason for riding the Ogre is that I do not (yet) own a road bike. My goal was to break 7 hrs., which I accompished. I finished the 100-mile course in 6 hr. 58 min. and am very proud of how I did. However, I was dropped by the majority of the field by mile #7 and it ended up being a lonely 100-mile ride (still fun and enjoyable, just lonely). The front group crossed the finish line in 4 hr. 26 min., and by the time I made it to the finish everyone had already packed up and gone home - LOL! To be honest, it was pretty funny and I had to laugh when I realized how far behind I really was.

Rather than feeling defeated, this experience is serving as motivation. As already stated, I'm proud of how I did and I accomplished my goal. However, I'd like to improive my time next year by as much as is realistically possible. To do this I know I will need to implement a structured training plan. So.... For those familiar with TrainingPeaks premium are the features worth the $119/year? Is TrainingPeaks a good tool for me and my goals? Thanks in advance for the feedback!