I am training for some gravel races in July and August. I am not currently on a specific plan, but am using a combination of previous plans and recommended workouts to “sweetspot up the whazoo” and built my CTL. I will hit a CTL of 70 this weekend after starting in the low 40s in late February.
Most of my weekday riding is limited to ~75-90 minutes. I have the chance to take some half days (likely 3-5) between now and my races and fit in some bonus long rides. I am wondering when these might be the most useful? Stagger them; do a big block early on; pile on the training 3-4 weeks out?
Like in training 2-4weeks out. Be like doing a training camp before. Give yourself 2 weeks of rest and taper. Plus you need 2 weeks to adapt to the training you did and reap the benefits. Make sure you recover though after before the event.