Tempo Endurance Ride

If a Tempo ride is Zone/Level 3 and an Endurance ride is Zone/Level 2, then what is a Tempo Endurance Ride? You guessed it, it's an endurance ride at a slightly higher pace. This ride will increase your ability to ride long endurance rides more comfortably and to ride them at a faster pace. This is a great ride during the base/build phase of the season. Make sure this ride is a minimum of 1.5 hrs. I like them anywhere between 2-3 hrs. Plus, there is nothing wrong at all with throwing a couple hills in the workout, like the elevation profile above. Just make sure that you don't stay at or above Zone/Level 4 (Lactate Threshold) pace for extended periods of time. This is also a good ride to rack up some TSS points. Personally, I think they're one of the most important training rides of the week.

Yes, I know, these are tough rides to get in this time of the year. But, when the good Lord gives you a near 50 deg F sunny day (the end of December) you get outside and take advantage of it- NO EXCUSES!