I take it then that the VO2max block is not just for raising the maximum ml/kg/min but also for raising the FTP.
And following the VO2max block with a FTP-training block enhances that effect even further?
So first we do a tempo/sweetspot progression to enhance our overall aerobic performance and “move the PD-curve to the right”. Then a VO2max-block to boost the aerobic engine further and “push the PD-curve up”. And as an icing on the cake a Threshold-progression to once again move the TTE @ FTP to right, and hopefully also raise it even further.
Then, in my (and @jz91 's) case, with an A goal event which is essentially a 7 hour ride with 5 hours cumulative of tempo. The last race-specific preparation block could be another tempo/sweetspot progression.
Essentially this:
- Tempo/sweetspot (3-4wks ~10hr/wk)
– Recovery week - VO2max block (3wk ~9hrs/wk)
– Recovery week - Threshold progression (3-4wks ~10hrs/wk)
– Recovery week - Tempo/sweetspot progression (3-4wks ~11hrs/wk)
– Semi taper week - Race Week (end of week)
If I back calculate this from my Goal Event the above scheme starts at the beginning of March.
Considering the fact that I am away for 10 days at the end of February on Snowboarding-trip, this gives me approximately 11 weeks to fill. So enough to complete my current Endurance/Tempo progression, do VO2 block and FTP-block.
So two cycles: Tempo > VO2 > Threshold > (short break) > Tempo > VO2max > Threshold > Tempo > Event.