This training plan has been designed by Pav Bryan — Olympic cycling coach, TrainingPeaks Level 2 Coach and Amazon #1 Author.
Taking on your first hilly Classic?
This plan is designed for newer cyclists who already ride consistently and want a clear, progressive route towards completing a demanding hilly Classic-style event.
These events combine long distance with repeated climbs, harder efforts and accumulated fatigue. You need aerobic endurance, sustainable climbing power, good fatigue resistance and the confidence to keep riding strongly as the event gets harder.
This plan develops those qualities progressively so you can arrive fitter, better prepared and ready for the challenge.
Who this plan is for
This Build Your Fitness version is ideal if you're newer to structured training but already ride regularly and are ready to take the next step.
Expect a moderate weekly training load, typically around 5–8 hours of cycling depending on your fitness, intensity and how you complete the longer rides.
You should ideally have several weeks of consistent riding behind you before starting.
What you'll work on
- Aerobic fitness and long-distance endurance
- Sustainable climbing power
- Short harder efforts for steeper climbs and changes in pace
- Fatigue resistance for long, hilly days
- Cadence and cycling efficiency
- Recovery so you can train consistently
Where possible, make some of your longer rides similar to the terrain you'll face on event day. Hill repetitions can also be adapted to better match the length and gradient of your target climbs.
If your event includes cobbles, gravel or rough surfaces, practising on similar terrain can help you develop confidence and test your bike setup.
You can follow the sessions using power, heart rate or perceived exertion. A power meter can be useful, but it is not essential.
Simple, structured training
Every workout includes clear instructions so you know what to do and what the session is trying to achieve.
This plan can work well for events such as Gran Fondo Strade Bianche, Tourversion Amstel Gold Race, Liège–Bastogne–Liège Challenge and other demanding hilly Classic-style rides.
Want more support?
This is a self-guided training plan designed to give you a clear structure to follow.
If you'd prefer training built specifically around your goals, available time, fitness and life outside cycling, you can upgrade to 1:1 coaching.
You'll find details and a link to book a free consultation at the start of the plan.
Build your endurance, strengthen your climbing — and arrive ready for your first hilly Classic.
Coaching athletes from those looking to enter their first event through to those like Mark Beaumont and James Lowsley-Williams ;)
I am experienced in public speaking and have presented numerous times around the world. I became a published author in 2019, with my #1 Amazon New Release book 'The Guide to Truly Effective Cycling'.