Polarized Advanced CX - Classic Zones - Cyclocross
Polarized Advanced CX - Classic Zones - Cyclocross
Structured Workouts automatically sync with compatible devices and guide you through workouts in real time.
Learn More about Structured Workouts.
Structured Workouts automatically sync with compatible devices and guide you through workouts in real time.
Learn More about Structured Workouts.
Plan Description
Polarized 80/20 Cyclocross Plan
written by Tim Cusick, TrainingPeaks WKO product leader and master coach with BaseCamp
Plan overview
Train with the coach of national and world ITT champion Amber Neben! This 8-week plan uses the popular 80/20 polarized approach to training and is an excellent way to peak (or re-peak) once a solid fitness base has been established (such as completing one of our full-season plans). It was created for racers aged 18-60, as the polarized format offers enough rest to allow similar structure for all ages; however, if you're over 40 and find yourself really tired, turn the weekend high-intensity day into a rest or easy endurance day.
Polarized training has some significant benefits when it comes to pushing a peak. Tim wrote an explanatory article demonstrating how this training modality can be used by an aerobically-fit athlete to push peak form as you head into a big race or racing season. This plan is designed for the mature cyclist (meaning cycling age), but it can be easily adjusted for riders with less experience by following the explanation in the article. The keys to success are to go as hard as you can go on hard days and DO NOT EXCEED TARGETS on the easy days.
The plan uses classic zones and is designed for use with power, heart rate, or perceived exertion. Even though the workouts have been structured for your convenience, don't rely on the structure on the hard days, because the workout needs to be maximal intensity.
The workouts can be used in the traditional format or as structured workouts, which load automatically to select devices (Garmin, Zwift, RGT, ErgVideo, TrainerRoad, Racermate, and more) so you can see your workout and interval numbers right on your device.
Included with your plan:
- User guide
- Testing protocol
- Coaching tips and encouragement
- Free strength training routine from Menachem Brodie
Need help loading your structured works to your device or smart trainer? Click here to read instructions.
We've got more plans!
Tim Cusick has written dozens of training plans for many different areas of cycling: road, gravel, time trial, mountain bike, cyclocross, indoor training, and more. Click here for a full list of his current plans by sport type.
In addition to his coaching experience, Tim is the TrainingPeaks WKO product leader and the founder of BaseCamp.
Questions?
Click here to view a list of frequently asked questions about our training plans. If you don't find your answer there, please email us directly.
How it Works
Load Your Plan
Quickly view upcoming workouts in the TrainingPeaks app.
Workout and Analyze
Upload completed workouts from your favorite tracking app or device.
Track Your Progress
Get feedback, stay on top of your training and perform at your best.
Training Plan Sample Week
Stats
Average Weekly Breakdown
| Workouts | Weekly Average | Longest Workout |
|---|---|---|
|
Bike
x6
|
09:21:00 | 03:00:00 |
|
Day Off
x1
|
—— | —— |
|
Run
x1
|
00:07:00 | 00:07:00 |
|
Strength
x1
|
—— | —— |
| Workouts Per Week | Weekly Average | Longest Workout | |
|---|---|---|---|
|
|
09:21:00 | 03:00:00 | |
|
|
—— | —— | |
|
|
00:07:00 | 00:07:00 | |
|
|
—— | —— |
Training Load By Week
This plan works best with the following fitness devices:
- Power Meter
- Heart Rate Monitor
- This plan includes a Free Basic TrainingPeaks Account.
- Access your training plan anywhere on the TrainingPeaks mobile and desktop apps.
- Track your performance with robust data tracking and detailed graphs.
- Plan for your event in the TrainingPeaks calendar.
- Track your weight, sleep, hours, fatigue and stress while you train.
- Completed workouts sync with popular apps like Garmin and Wahoo. Learn More
- If plan includes Structured Workouts, then planned workouts sync to compatible devices and guide you through workouts in real time. Learn More
Refund Policy
This plan is protected by our Refund Policy and may, with the author's approval, be exchanged for a plan of equal value from the same author.
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