This training plan has been designed by Pav Bryan — Olympic cycling coach, TrainingPeaks Level 2 Coach and Amazon #1 Author.
Building towards your first 50-mile ride?
This plan is designed for newer cyclists who want a clear, structured route towards completing 50 miles with more confidence and less guesswork.
For many riders, the biggest challenge isn't speed — it's building enough aerobic endurance, consistency, pacing awareness and confidence to stay comfortable as the distance increases.
This plan develops those qualities progressively so that you arrive ready to complete 50 miles feeling prepared rather than simply hoping you can get through it.
Who this plan is for
This plan is best suited to beginner or developing riders who already have some regular cycling behind them and want to build towards longer rides.
You should ideally have at least four weeks of consistent riding completed before starting.
If you're completely new to cycling or returning after a long break, consider completing a short preparation phase first.
What the plan includes
- Progressive endurance rides building towards the 50-mile distance
- Focused midweek sessions developing aerobic fitness and cycling efficiency
- Supporting rides to build consistency without excessive training load
- Core and strength work
- Regular recovery/rest days
The plan also includes guidance around pacing, nutrition, hydration, technique and preparing for longer rides.
You can follow the plan using power, heart rate or perceived exertion. No power meter is required.
Many cycling sessions contain structured workout files that can be used with compatible TrainingPeaks devices and training platforms.
A note about this Classic Plan
This is one of my Classic TrainingPeaks plans, developed from the coaching methods I've used with cyclists over many years.
The training itself remains fully usable, but because the plan was originally created on an earlier version of TrainingPeaks, some older external links or legacy TrainingPeaks features within individual sessions may no longer be available.
An updated guide is included at the beginning of the plan with additional information and current resources.
Want the plan adapted around you?
A pre-built plan is a great option if you're comfortable managing your own training.
But no generic plan can know your exact fitness, available time, recovery, confidence, strengths, weaknesses or how you're responding from week to week.
If you'd like me to build and manage your training personally, you can upgrade to 1:1 coaching at any point.
TrainingPeaks plan customers receive an exclusive coaching upgrade offer.
You'll find details and a link to book a free consultation with me at the start of the plan.
Build your fitness, grow your confidence — and enjoy your first 50 miles.
Olympic cycling coach, TrainingPeaks Level 2 Coach, Amazon #1 Author and Seven Summits cycling world record holder. I coach riders from first Gran Fondos and amateur races through to ultra-endurance, national and world-class performance. My approach combines proven training principles with your goals, available time, recovery and life outside cycling.