This is extremely well put, total agreement. The lowest risk approach is often staying closer to the minimum effective dose, everything above that is usually diminishing returns. That said, diminishing returns are still returns if you have the desire/curiosity to explore closer to your limits. And I personally think there is way too much drama about over training and “going off the cliff”. Very few amateurs ever get close to actual over training syndrome (what I personally consider a true cliff). The cliff for most amateurs is more like a gentle downward slope as we crest a rolling hill. We can absolutely have periods where we over-reach or get sick, but that typically isn’t some catastrophic disaster that takes months or years to recover from. A little over-reaching isn’t big deal unless it happens right when you are trying to peak for a high priority event. I’d argue that serious amateurs should consider stepping into an over–reaching state from time to time, it’s a good way to get in tune with the signals and feelings that comes with it. Maybe not the right approach for the rider primarily focused on trying to stay fit and keep up on the weekend group rides, but it can be a fun part of the sport for those who want to find personal limits.
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