On those days where one is not recovering well between sets, is it generally better to increase recovery than to lower percentage of effort for next set? I am guessing that is the case, as I do not get a pop up questionnaire so long as hitting power targets, just the TSS lowered for the workout. (Indoor training, erg mode)
1 Like
If the intervals are hard enough that you’re not recovering between them, I’d reduce the intensity.
Adding more rest changes the structure of the workout, so lowering intensity slightly is actually the better option here. 
1 Like
I’d also say that the context of the workout can make a difference. For some workouts, the amount of rest between intervals is more critical to the purpose of the workout than others. In general, as the intensity of the workout goes up, the more the duration of the rest intervals play into driving adaptations. A big part of those intervals is building repeatability. But for long/steady sweet spot and threshold work that are essentially “sustainable” aerobic work, I’d prioritize time in zone and holding target power rather than worrying about whether you rest for 4’ or 6’ between those long intervals. This is particularly true if you’ve got suboptimal cooling and need to shed some heat and get some hydration before starting the next long interval.
2 Likes