mpderksen wrote:
Bryce, thanks for the previous help. June 4th I start the Specialty phase, just 8 weeks from my target 70.3. Looking at the options, I see a pretty dramatic jump from the mid-volume to the high, on the Sunday rides. Yesterday I rode 2:15, so I’m able to ramp up to the longer if that’s best, but it’s a bit of a stretch. My estimated ride pace for the race is right at 20mph, so I’m not sure how much over 3 hours I should ride. However, as soon as this is done, I’m switching the the Full Distance plan to prep for Cozumel. Suck it up and do the high mileage specialty plan?Hey again!
One point I'd like to make really clear is that choosing a plan volume is not a matter of "Rule #5", but rather it is important to choose the plan with the appropriate amount of stress for your current fitness, lifestyle, stress levels etc. As you move up to higher volume plans, the recovery becomes an even more crucial part of your training since you are pushing your body closer to its physcialy limits. And for some people, the high volume plans will push them beyond their physical limits, which will come as a detriment to their training rather than a benefit. A higher volume plan does not always equal a faster performance on race day.
Another thing I'd like to mention is that you do not need to be training at your target event's distance or duration in order to perform your best at that distance/duration. To learn more about this concept, check out this article from our Blog:
http://blog.trainerroad.com/ive-never-done-my-full-race-distance-will-i-be-ready-for-my-event/
So the question really comes down to this: are you feeling challenged by the Mid-Volume Plan? If the answer is yes, then stick to the mid-volume consistently and you will see improvements. If the answer is no, the Mid-Volume is too easy, then giving the High Volume Plan a try could bring about greater fitness improvements :)
I hope that makes sense, let me know if you'd like me to clarify anything!
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