Subject: RE: Matt Fitzgerald's HIM plans bachorb - 2009-03-27 5:18 PM Hey guys -
I am using the level 7 HIM plan from Matt Fitzgerald's book (the one that has 42 different training plans in it). I went 5:00 last year (OK - 5:03) and am looking to go 4:30 this year. I am into the first build phase right now of Fitzgerald's plan and so far I have been pleased.
The one thing that irks me about it though is the lack of "race simulations" for the bike. The plan I used last year (I got it off of Beginner Triathlete) had a high-intensity 2:30-3:00 ride every few weeks. However, all of the long rides in Fitzgerald's plan are of "moderate aerobic intensity." The bike is my strong leg - right now I do a 2:30-2:35 during a race - would it make sense for me to turn up the heat a bit on the long rides or do I need to "trust the plan?" There are a good amount of intense rides during the week, but none of them are over 1'45". My question to you is...what are you limiters and how are they coming along. I know the question is kind of a deflection from your time goal and long bike question but there is a reason. The main reason is that you should be able to go 2:3x on the bike and still be able to go close to or under 4:30 for the total time. By keeping your pacing at a moderate to upper end aerobic intensity you will gain aerobic endurance which will ulitmatly translate to speed. If you want to go faster on the bike for 70.3 I would focus some of your 25-30 mile efforts at tempo rides for the entire ride after you warm up. You'll seem more benefit from that in my opinion that riding race simulations and toasting yourself. Focus on your limiter(s) as well as your tempo ride that falls in that 25-35 mile range and you'll be fine. Good luck. |