Help choosing a plan to start with.

[Dovas]

Hi Lynda-

Here’s some context: I’m a 50-year old cat 3 XC racing enthusiast. I just recently purchased your Weight Loss Base plan. I own the 40+ Masters Base plan and the 40+ Build, Peak plan. After a season of inconsistent training last spring, and a four-week vacation in Europe, this summer, (during which I did very little exercise), I’m ready to start training again. However, I’ve gained weight and am 18 lbs above my ideal race weight. (I’m 5’11” 188 lbs.) I plan to ride a 50k MTB Gran Fondo on Sept. 29, my goal being to enjoy the ride and set a benchmark for the future. I plan to race XC on Nov. 17, and my goal is to ride well and get some experience. After these events, I plan to start training for the 2019 XC season that starts in the second week of March, and runs through June.

1. I’m writing to ask which plan would you advise I follow to be prepared enough to enjoy the Sept and Nov events? I’ve started the 40+ Masters Base plan and am currently in week 5.
2. Do I stay the course, or move over to the weight loss plan?
3. Could I do the recommended Paleo diet during the 40+ Base plan instead, and continue to get stronger and more lean?
4. I sense my priority should be weight loss at this point. Do you agree?

Thank you, kindly for your assistance.

[Lynda]

Hi Dovas,

1/2. I recommend switching to the Weight Loss plan and following the first 6 weeks with a significant focus on weight loss. Then switch back to the 40+ Masters Base plan.

3. I recommend following the modified Paleo diet for Athletes while on both of these plans. Make sure you take in extra carbs for long and hard rides and for races.

4. Put the most focus on that for 6 weeks to get a jump start on the weight loss then focus on Base training as the rest of the weight comes off.

Lynda

[Dovas]

Hey Lynda –

Thank you so much for the reply! I’ll get right to it!

Just for clarification: When you say “modified Paleo diet for Athletes” you’re referring to the approach outlined in the article in TrainingPeaks titled “A Quick Guide to the Paleo Diet for Athletes” right?

[Lynda]

Yes, this article, A Quick Guide to the Paleo Diet for Athletes and also “The Paleo Diet for Athletes” book by the same authors Dr. Loren Cordain, PhD and Joe Friel.

Coach Lynda

[Dovas]

Got it. Thank you!!!!

[Author]

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