3. Pros and Cons
HIIT training for cyclists sounds like a perfect solution to improve your fitness as well as boost your performance in high-intensity zones. We would ask one very important question if HIIT is so good and beneficial for you, why “Pros” training plans are not based on HIIT workouts?
Yes, high-intensity interval workouts should be a part of every training plan, but it can’t be based on HIIT, Pro cyclists are spending around 90% – 95% of their training below or in their threshold zones. This information can tell you a lot, sorry but there are no shortcuts. If you are looking for long term results you need to spend long hours riding your bike.
Many types of research are talking about the benefits of HIIT workouts, but not many mentions that those results are short term. On the other side, long workouts give you long term benefits.
Interval training can very easily overload your body and lead to burnout. Remember that your training plan should be based on “lower” zones and steadily increase the intensity and do more intervals in higher zones during the season.
There is no way to win any race without specific intervals, but it is just the tip of the iceberg!