Ultra Running Series - VO2max Training
Ultra Running Series - VO2max Training
Structured Workouts automatically sync with compatible devices and guide you through workouts in real time.
Learn More about Structured Workouts.
Length
4 Weeks
Structured Workouts automatically sync with compatible devices and guide you through workouts in real time.
Learn More about Structured Workouts.
Plan Description
This plan provides a 4-week focus on VO2max training for runners with at least four years of training experience who are targeting an event from 50K to 50 miles.
The plan holds training volume relatively constant while focusing on developing your aerobic capacity with VO2max intervals. Your aerobic capacity, or VO2max, refers to the highest rate of oxygen transport by your body during maximal physical exertion. Think of this as your performance “ceiling.” By raising your ceiling, you will raise your overall fitness — including your ability to run faster over the distance of your event at an aerobic pace.
The plan is part of the Alp Fitness ultra running series designed to take you through a progression of training phases over a period of about six months to prepare you for your ultramarathon. The recommended progression through the series: Aerobic Base Conditioning (optional) > VO2max Training (4 weeks) > Lactate Threshold Training (8 weeks) > Endurance Training (12 weeks) > Taper (2 weeks).
The plan integrates mental skills training into your running workouts, and includes a strength training program to supplement the run training.
Begin this plan about 6 months out from your target event to kick off your training; then follow it with the lactate threshold training plan before finishing with the endurance training plan a few weeks prior to your goal event. Before beginning this plan, it is recommended that you are not coming off a complete break from running — if that’s the case, start with the aerobic base conditioning plan or the equivalent in training to ensure you’re ready to jump into this plan’s higher intensity workouts.
The plan assigns running volume based on training hours and training stress score (TSS). Adjust the frequency, volume, and number of intervals up or down based on your personal starting point — see the guidelines within the plan to customize the plan for your own situation.
To target and monitor your training intensity, the workouts provide training zone descriptions based on breathing and talking cues to help you gauge your perceived exertion, as well as heart rate ranges, if you use a heart rate monitor. The Alp Fitness training zones are also compatible with running power. But you are encouraged to learn to judge your effort levels "by feel" even if using these other tools.
No matter where you want to go, you must start where you are with your own unique goals in mind. This plan — like any training plan — represents an initial draft, rather than a final document set in stone. You will write the final version over the coming weeks as you glean feedback from your training and adapt the plan to your specific situation and goals. Train smart!
How it Works
Quickly view upcoming workouts in the TrainingPeaks app.
Upload completed workouts from your favorite tracking app or device.
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 |
---|---|---|
Run
x6
|
03:42:00 | 01:30:00 |
Strength
x4
|
01:27:00 | 00:30:00 |
Day Off
x1
|
—— | —— |
Workouts Per Week | Weekly Average | Longest Workout | |
---|---|---|---|
|
03:42:00 | 01:30:00 | |
|
01:27:00 | 00:30:00 | |
|
—— | —— |
Training Load By Week
This plan works best with the following fitness devices:
- 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.
Still have questions about this plan?15% Off
Bundle your plan with TrainingPeaks Premium, and you'll unlock our progress-tracking tools, plus the freedom to move workouts to fit your schedule.
![](/training-plan-assets/images/grouped_devices.png)
$106.24 USD for the first year, billed yearly.