Longer rides than specified in plan

[Trent]

Hi Lynda,

I just finished the Masters XC Base plan and am starting the 100 mile plan.  I really enjoy long rides on my bike and am wondering if it is acceptable to do longer rides than those that are specified in the plans, but stay at the recommended intensity levels.  I did several 6 hour rides when the base plan only called for 3 hours and I didn't feel like it affected my workouts for the rest of the week.  I am wondering if I should continue this trend building up to 8-10 hour rides, including some 100+ mile gravel races, throughout the course of the program (usually day 7 of the plan).  Is there a reason not to go longer than prescribed if it doesn't have a negative effect on recovery or subsequent workouts?

Thanks,

Trent

[Lynda]

Trent,

Spending extra energy on longer rides takes away energy that can be spent on getting faster. If your goal is to complete your races and getting faster is not a goal it is ok to extend the long rides. If you want to get faster then put the work into the speed sessions and follow the plan on the long ride days. 

Lynda

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