I’m Sarah Hunter — a cycling coach and strength & conditioning coach with over 10 years of experience helping riders get stronger, fitter, and race-ready. I live in Margaret River, train year-round on the Cape to Cape trails, and have coached dozens of riders to successful finishes and personal bests in this legendary multi-day event.
This 12-week Cape to Cape Essentials Training Plan is for riders who want a proven, structured cycling program to prepare for race day. Whether this is your first Cape to Cape or you're returning for another crack at the event, this plan provides the guidance and progression you need to arrive at the start line confident and prepared.
Whats included?
• A structured 12-week training plan delivered in TrainingPeaks
• Heart rate-based training sessions
• Progressive weekly training designed specifically for Cape to Cape
• Pacing, fuelling, and trail-specific preparation tips throughout
• Recovery built into the program to help you absorb the training and arrive fresh for race day
• Easy-to-follow session descriptions and guidance
Plan Structure?
This plan is built in progressive blocks to develop:
• Endurance and trail efficiency
• Strength endurance and climbing capacity
• MTB-specific intensity
• A smart taper into race week
Training volume starts around 6–7 hours per week and builds to 10–11 hours at peak, with a balance of endurance riding, interval training, trail riding, and recovery.
This plan is ideal for riders who want a straightforward, effective training program without the complexity or cost of full coaching.
It's particularly suited to:
• First-time Cape to Cape riders
• Riders returning to the event after time away
• Busy athletes looking for clear weekly structure
• Anyone wanting a proven training roadmap leading into race day
What you will need:
• A heart rate monitor
• A bike computer (recommended)
Cape to Cape rewards riders who arrive prepared. This plan gives you a proven training structure that progressively builds your fitness, confidence, and readiness for four incredible days of riding.
Pricing: Please note that all TrainingPeaks plans are priced in USD, including for Australian customers.
If you're looking for additional support, MTB-specific strength training, and a 1:1 coach call, check out the Cape to Cape Ultimate Training Plan.
Working as both a cycling coach for FTP Training and a strength and conditioning coach for Hunter PT has given Sarah a perfect blend of skills to coach and help today's athletes.
Sarah is a highly qualified multi discipline coach who excels as a strength and conditioning coach, a triathlon coach, and a mountain bike coach. Sarah has also been the strength and conditioning writer for Mountain Biking Australia and Cycling Australia Magazines.