This 20-Week Gravel Ultra Endurance Training Plan is designed for athletes preparing for long-distance gravel events, ranging from 150km / 100 Mile races through to ultra-distance gravel events of 200–300km+.

If your goal event involves long hours in the saddle, sustained tempo riding, rolling or mountainous terrain, variable surfaces, and fatigue management, this plan builds the aerobic depth, durability, and pacing discipline required to perform strongly across demanding gravel race days.

The structure is well suited to iconic gravel ultra events similar in profile to Unbound-style races, long European gravel marathons, and adventure-style endurance events where success depends on repeatable effort, fuelling consistency, and resilience late in the race.

Written by Enduraprep Head Coach Lawrence Cronk, who has coached athletes across triathlon, road, gravel, and ultra-endurance cycling disciplines, this plan reflects real-world coaching experience rather than generic endurance templates.

⭐ Who This Plan Is For

Gravel riders targeting long-distance or ultra gravel events

Athletes stepping up from shorter gravel or road events

Riders aiming for a strong finish, PB, or competitive age-group performance

Cyclists comfortable training 7–9 hours per week initially, building higher

Athletes who value structured progression and purposeful long rides

⭐ Training Requirements & Equipment

You’ll need:

A smart trainer for structured weekday sessions

A gravel bike (power meter helpful but not essential; HR/RPE supported)

GPS device for long outdoor rides

Access to mixed terrain where possible

A solid aerobic base is recommended before starting.

⭐ Plan Structure

20-week progressive build with recovery every 4th week

Starting volume: 7–9 hours/week

Mid-plan: 10–12 hours/week

Peak weeks: 13–15 hours/week

Weekday sessions typically 60–90 minutes

Weekends focus on long endurance rides and back-to-back days

Indoor structured alternatives are provided when weather, daylight, or terrain access is limited.

⭐ Key Features

Structured workouts compatible with Garmin, Wahoo, Zwift & TrainingPeaks

Gravel-specific focus including:

Long tempo and sweet spot intervals

Low-cadence torque work for rolling terrain

Fatigue-resistant pacing sessions

Progressive long rides building toward 5–7 hours

Back-to-back endurance days to simulate ultra-race fatigue

Clear coaching notes explaining session intent, pacing, and fuelling considerations

Regular testing to monitor aerobic and threshold development

⭐ Why This Plan Works

Gravel ultra racing rewards athletes who can ride efficiently for long periods, manage effort on variable terrain, and fuel consistently under fatigue.

This plan delivers:

Progressive durability for ultra-distance gravel racing

Smart intensity distribution without unnecessary overload

Realistic preparation for long, demanding race days

Training that reflects the true demands of endurance gravel events

It prepares you to execute with control and confidence, not simply survive the distance.

⭐ Want Personalised Support?

For tailored adjustments, event-specific guidance, or full 1:1 coaching, visit:
👉 www.enduraprep.com/online-coaching