Originally Posted by
mkadam68
After watching this type of discussion on several boards/posts, at least here is a reason. And it makes sense (not that I'm a Dr. or anything). But it doesn't answer the question completely (or maybe I'm dense--a distinct possibility).
But if a person's body adapts to 150w at 120bpm, won't it do the same at 200w at 140bpm? or 300w at 160bpm? What makes the lower intensity stuff magical? And because these workloads are higher, won't the adjustment be even higher than lower intensity stuff? (And of course, a person has to do recovery rides for this adjustment to occur.)
To be honest there is no right or wrong answer. Studies and tests have been done over the past 40 years that show riding easier during the pre-season winter months helps more than just hammering non stop year round. Regardless of why it helps (this is the real debate) its proven.
All I can say is try riding with hard workloads this winter and come up with your own answers.