Originally Posted by
phoenity
I'd like to find a good book that works with my time constraints.
I'm planning to buy a Powertap. Which book would you guys recommend for power training that's going to help me plan the most effective workouts for my schedule? I don't want something like Friel's book that wants me to do weeks of base-building...I just cannot do that on a trainer.
Training and Racing with a Power Meter by Coggan and Allen. BTW Friel has changed his philosophy regarding base miles (see ultrafit link below).
http://www.amazon.com/Training-Racin.../dp/1931382794
http://www.ultrafit.com/newsletter/november07.html#AA
I'd also recommend you check out the Power Forum for ideas on how you might approach your training. Unless you are a pro with unlimited time on your hands adding intensity to your winter workouts (especially if you're doing them on a trainer) is a smart move.
http://www.cyclingforums.com/f88-power-training.html
http://www.cyclingforums.com/t439376.html
The question is how much intesity and what type. Threshold work? 3-5 vo2 efforts? 1 -3 min anaerobic intervals? Sprints? What I see and hear is people adding intensity to their winter program that is at the intersection of what Coggan and Allen term Tempo and Threshold, what they refer to as the Sweet Spot. This link describes this "zone" and may be helpful as you decide how to approach your training. It's taxing enough to keep you motivated; it won't kill you psychologically; and it's an incredibly efficient use of training/trainer time. You can do a lot of good and see training adaptation in an hour or less.
http://www.fascatcoaching.com/sweetspot.html
Many recommend doing sprints year round, and saving the vo2 and anaerobic work for sharpening your form and inducing a peak as you approach race season.
Hope this helps.
gene r