After 2 seasons of using a coach, I've decided (given current economics) to use the eRacePlanner to map out my training for the next season. I purchased the software last summer in anticipation of going self-coached at some point (and this day is here).

First, I like the program and the training plans look spot on.

Second, sorry for not posting these in the "ask a question of Coach" forum. I've emailed the admin to get me setup as an owner of the software. But in the meantime.....

My questions for Coach Kev:
1) I understand that the HR training zones used are not directly aligned with Joel Friel's HR zones and I am comfortable with that.

Do you have guidance on how power zones (I own a power tap) and run pacing (such as Daniels E, M, T and I paces) would line up to your zone 1, 2, 3, 4 and 5?

I have trained by HR in the past but I have found that power for cycling and run pace work better for me.

2) I plan to use the advanced HIM plan. The longest bike say 4-5 hours which would put me at 80 to 90 miles. Just want to verify that given my training paces, that is the right mileage.

Thanks.

Hi Jon,

Thanks for checking in with me on the topic of creating power zones. I've outlined the protocol for determining Power Zones elsewhare in General Questions in a thread titled 'Power Zones' - here's the link:

http://www.eraceplanner.com/Forum/tabid/54/forumid/9/postid/72/view/topic/Default.aspx

Another tread worth reading on this topic is one titled "HR Zones" in that same section - here's that link:

http://www.eraceplanner.com/Forum/tabid/54/forumid/9/postid/6/view/topic/Default.aspx

You could do a similar "step-test" on a flat running route,using your pace device, to determine pace zones and input those figures into the appropriate sections of the 'Zones' page of eRacePlanner.

Regarding your question of the long rides in the level 3 HIM program: Given your pace and estimated (let's say) 85miles, that would be 1.5 times the race distance at a sub-race pace intensity. It is by no means essential for everyone intending to do a HIM distance tri to ride 1.5 times the distance, but it is appropriate for an athlete of a "Level 3" ability, to consider an "over-distance" ride of that duration. You can also consider that a 4-5 hour ride would be a bike workout that equates to the approximate finish time of that athlete for the HIM distance race - obviously this logic should not be applied to (much) slower athletes.

Quick answer........Yes.

If the training plans look good to you now, you're going to be very impressed with an upcoming (update) release, including a much improved selection of swim workouts (especially), to all existing users.

Stay in touch.

CoachKev.