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Vapor Trail 125 race training plan

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We are excited to announce the release of our new Vapor Trail 125 training plan, now available on TrainingPeaks.

This is a 12‑week training plan designed specifically for the Vapor Trail 125. Our coaches at LW Coaching collaborated with the VT125 race promoters to create a plan that prepares you for the unique demands of this event.

The Vapor Trail 125 is a tough race. It:

  • Starts at 10 pm
  • Covers 125 miles of rugged Colorado backcountry trails
  • Includes about 17,000 feet of climbing
  • Reaches altitudes above 12,000 feet
  • Often brings temperatures below freezing
  • Features many steep climbs and hike‑a‑bike sections

Who this plan is for

This plan is challenging and assumes you already have solid base fitness. We recommend completing one of our 12‑week Base training plans before starting this VT125 plan.

For the 2026 event, the ideal start date for this plan is June 22, which is 12 weeks before race day on September 12.

How the plan works

Our LW Coaching MTB Training Plans use structured workouts in TrainingPeaks to help you get the most from both indoor and outdoor training.

For outdoor rides, you can:

  • Use heart rate, power (watts), TSS, and IF targets
  • Sync workouts to your bike computer

For indoor rides, you can:

  • Sync your plan to your favorite smart trainer app, such as Zwift or TrainingPeaks Virtual.

Weekly training time ranges from about 6.5 to 16.5 hours.
The plan includes bike workouts, strength work, and mobility sessions.

The main focus is building the specific abilities you need for a strong VT125 ride, including:

  • Endurance, strength and power
  • Altitude adaptation
  • Hike‑a‑bike ability
  • Technical mountain bike skills
  • Core strength and mobility
  • Fueling and GI training
  • Equipment testing

Recommended equipment

Workouts are paced using power (watts), heart rate, and perceived exertion.
At a minimum, you should have a heart rate monitor to follow this plan effectively.

A power meter and smart trainer are optional but very helpful tools.
You do not need a power meter or smart trainer to successfully complete the plan.

Learn more and get the plan

View a sample training week and purchase the Vapor Trail 125 Race training plan on TrainingPeaks.

Email Coach Lynda lynda@lwcoaching.com for more information.

Visit the Vapor Trail 125 site to register to race, learn about training routes and get inspired!