How did you come up with your training program??

Quoted post said:

Originally posted by g8000
From what I've read in the short time that I've been visiting these forums, it seems to me that there is a variety of cyclists here; recreational, fitness, and racers. Almost everybody follows a particular training program. I was wondering how did you develop or come about that program? Did you hire a coach, got it off a book/internet, or word of mouth from fellow club riders?

My training program is based on one thing and one thing only...does it work for my life style? I've read a lot on this forum site and have adapted some of the ideas to make my own game plan. My over all goal is improved physical fitness and cycle touring. For me, distance and endurance is more important than speed per say.

My only "rule" is that I ride every single day, rain or shine. Distance doesn't matter. Time doesn't matter. What does matter is consistency. Whether it's 5 mins or 50 kms, I get on the bike every single day. Once I get my butt levered to the saddle, then I can worry about times and distances.

Overall, I set myself a weekly mileage goal, which I don't modify for a month, after which I review my previous month and decide how much to up the ante. My theory is that the 1st week of the month, the weekly mileage should be "tough" to put in, weeks 2 & 3 -- all right; week 4, piece of cake.

So far, the bar's been consistently too low. I'm exceeding my goals considerably. I've turned out to be strong than I anticipated but that's all right. I think I need some solid sucesses to help encourage me.

I have read several books, info posted here & taken what I think will work for me best & just done it. You will find that almost everyone will tell you that no plan is perfect for everyone. I track all my rides in an Excel spreadsheet & base how I am doing based on that, weekly group rides & how I am feeling. I then adjust my training as needed. The most important thing is listening to your body - you feel bad take the day off or more as needed. Hope that helps

Time is my guide. I ride more when I have more time.

I figured out what would kill me...and then backed it off a little bit.

...no? Hahha, no I'm just a newbie but I couldn't resist using that answer. lol

I've basically come up with my own training program. I know that high frequency of workouts of a fairly long duration (about 1 hr)is a must to develop a high lactate threshold and V02 max, so I train 5 days per week, riding for about 1 hr. If I feel tired one day I reduce my intensity of riding, if I feel really lousy I take the day off. I'm aiming to compete in a 20-40 k time trial or mass start race.