Joel Friel's Training Ideas

[Mike S]

Okey I admit, I never did make it through Joel Friel's Training Bible. It's dry and it's boring and I'd just rather ride my bike than read a book. However, I think I understand and follow his basic philosophy. In fact, most coaches prescribe some variation of the same basic concept of periodization.

Here's a recent blog entry from Joel Friel that gives a great intro to the concept:

www.trainingbible.com/joesblog/2009/10/preparing-for-2010-season-part-1.html

[Eric A]

Yep. I've been using Friel's training diary since August 2007...a good tool.

I'm in my foundation phase now with the basic strength phase starting in December. I've studied the works of Burke, Jeukendrup, Carmichael/Rutger, and have pulled-together a decent program. I also have an external metabolics group at WSU-Riverpoint analyzing my nutritional needs for training and racing (volunteer program). Soon, I'll get down to the Metabolics Institute to re-validate my power zones.

This time around, I'll have a substantial base built-up with a resistance program incorporated into the basic strength phase. (I didn't have this last season).

It's a lot of information and tracking but I'm enjoying it, and looking forward to next season.

Where it all happens, (yeah, that gear behind the bike next to the DVD player is a nordic track--great supplement during this winter stuff):