CTS Training Plan Question
 

I am working on setting up a training plan using Carmichael's guidelines from "The Ultimate Ride". Previously, I've trained to race XC seasons using Friel's method, and last year I followed Friel's road cycling bible, with some pretty good success. Carmichael's system seems pretty different, and I'm going to give it a go, in preparation for next year's season.

I'm trying to make sure that I have my periodization set up correctly. Currently, I'm planning for 3 months Foundation, 4 months Preparation, 3 months Specialized (hopefully peaking here), followed by 1 month back in Preparation, and 2 months Specialized (for a second peak).

Sound ok?

Sounds good if you can do it. The thing I liked about the the CTS version was it was great about being realistic with your other obligations, family, work, etc. Best of luck next season

13 months? Sounds like a pretty long year.

what is the source of the cts plan?

Is it a book or a website plan?

Carmichael preaches that "there is no off season". Instead, he uses "Transition" phases, which is a 4-6 week period of riding leisurely, cross training, etc.

Also, ford... the book is called "The Ultimate Ride" by Chris Carmichael. It's a great read. The nutritional information, alone, is worth it. It's also got some great info on fit. It's a little difficult to try to follow what he says as far as how to set up a season. I think he stays vague, because he likes to be dynamic and adjust the season, depending on how the athlete is developing/recovering, etc. This is in contrast to Joe Friel's "The Cyclist's Training Bible", where he walks you through setting up a season step-by-step.