This plan aims to prepare you for the demands of a Gran Fondo or Sportive type event. Typically these events are run over 60+ miles and depending on the terrain can take several hours to complete.
It's worth noting that this plan is male specific, if you are female then please see that version of the plan as there are subtle differences between the two.
The plan is for individuals who have been riding for several years and have a solid base of cycling specific endurance under their belt. If you are new to cycling or have only been riding for a couple of years this might be too demanding. You could still purchase the plan but i'd suggest taking one extra rest day per week if you have been riding less than 5 years.
Most of the sessions are Zwift / indoor trainer compatible as determined by your current threshold power settings. However some of the rides which are prescribed using heart rate will not be Zwift compatible as it is assumed these would be performed outside. For example the long endurance ride.
This plan follows the typical 3 weeks of progressive build and then 1 week of lower volume to promote recovery and help with the adaptations.
The first 4 week block aims to build both your endurance with longer slower rides and your capacity to ride at harder efforts below your functional threshold, or typically referred to as tempo and sweet spot.
As the plan progresses the intensity and duration of the longer rides increases to help build that all important endurance.
The 2nd and 3rd blocks for example introduce efforts around your functional threshold using an over/under type protocal and some lower cadence efforts to simulate riding on steeper gradients typically seen in gran fondos.
As we approach the end of the plan we introduce some higher Vo2 max work in addition to the longer slower rides to help provide that necessary peak before your key event.
Good luck in your chosen event.
Hi, my name is Colin from Tried and Tested Cycle Coaching. I've been cycling for 15+ years and my primary focus has been on the road, both in terms of road racing and time trials with a high degree of success. I've learnt a lot in those years from reading and studying the science and from listening to others, that journey never stops. I still enjoy racing at a high level in the amateur ranks as a master and I'm now looking to pass on that knowledge and help others achieve their goals.