Master the 100-Mile Gravel Grind

This 20-week plan is designed for riders who have been in the saddle for long events before but are looking to dial in their gravel-specific performance. Move beyond just finishing and start mastering the unique demands of off-road endurance.

The Benefits for You

• Gravel-Specific Durability: Build the resilient power needed to handle rolling terrain and technical riding over 100 miles.
• Refine Your Engine: Advance your aerobic threshold and muscular endurance to maintain speed.
• Strategic Preparation: A structured, heart rate based approach to volume and intensity.

Targets of the Plan

• Develop the specific strength required for steep gravel climbs and loose descents.
• Optimize your pacing and fueling strategy for 6+ hours of off-road effort.
• Arrive at the start line with the fitness and technical confidence to improve your previous long-distance benchmarks.

Structured Progression

• Volume & Variety: A 20-week build that respects your experience, scaling from established base miles up to a peak 80 mile simulation.
• Performance Focused: Averages 6 to 8 hours, peaking at 11 hours of riding per week, utilizing a mix of intervals and sustained zone 2 work.

Key Features

• Terrain-Adapted Intervals: Sessions designed to mimic the surges required on gravel inclines.
• Intensity: A step up from beginner plans, focusing on efficiency and sustained power.
• Flexible Training: Sessions based on heart rate, or perceived effort to suit your setup.
• Integrated Smartwatch Support: Follow your workouts live and track your progress seamlessly.

Who Is This Plan For?

• Experienced Riders: Cyclists who have completed a century or long sportives and are ready to tackle the specific challenges of 100 miles on gravel.
• Return to Distance: Athletes who want a 20 week return to peak for a marquee event.
• The Progressing Amateur: Riders looking for more than a "finishers" plan but who still need the flexibility of a structured schedule.

What You Get

• 20 weeks of detailed, periodized training.
• A mix of steady-state endurance, threshold work, and long rides.
• A fully integrated training calendar for seamless scheduling.

Check out our other 100 Mile Training Plans Here

Your Next Level Awaits

Don't just show up to the start line; show up ready to dictate your ride. This 20-week journey will sharpen your fitness and give you the tools to handle whatever the gravel throws at you.