I’m in Leadville 100!

[datcherson]

Hi Lynda, I followed your 100k PR plan up to the LT 100k this past weekend. It went well despite some frustrating mechanicals. But, I'm in Leadville and super excited for the challenge ahead!

My question now is, what should I do to prepare for the Leadville race in the PR fashion? Should I repeat specific weeks of the 100k plan and add some time/mileage to the weekend rides? I would also like to work in another zone test since I didn't feel good for the 2nd test I did during the 100k plan. I feel like my zones might be off a bit.

Thanks!

Chad

[Lynda]

Congrats on getting into Leadville!

Race day is 8/13 and today is 7/28, so you have 15 days to race day. Your best option is to get back on the 100k PR plan timing it to finish on race day 8/13.

[datcherson]

Lynda, thanks for all your help tweaking my training up to Leadville. I'm feeling as strong as ever and your plan has made all the difference. I have a question on race day execution related to heart rate zones.

Given that the elevation is so high, it is expected for heart rates to be increased as a result of the altitude. We plan on arriving about 60 hrs prior to the race so hopefully we will have some time to acclimate. I have ridden at 10000-12000 ft before with no ill effects, but not in a race or monitoring zones/pace. My question is how much can I rely on my HR zones for pacing? Or should I go more by perceived exertion?

Thanks!

Chad

[Lynda]

Heart rate zones when moving up to altitude become compressed. Your resting heart rate will be higher and your max heart rate will be lower. Your threshold heart rate will probably be slightly lower. There are other heart rate complications to take into consideration. Dehydration will increase your threshold heart rate. Make sure you are accurate with your hydration balance. Excitement and adrenaline will increase your threshold heart rate.

[Lynda]

Heart rate zones when moving up to altitude become compressed. Your resting heart rate will be higher and your max heart rate will be lower. Your threshold heart rate will probably be slightly lower. There are other heart rate complications to take into consideration. Dehydration will increase your threshold heart rate. Make sure you are accurate with your hydration balance. Excitement and adrenaline will increase your threshold heart rate.

[datcherson]

That all makes perfect sense. I will report back after the race.

Thanks!

Chad

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