Why Does My CTL Plateau Towards Race Date?

CTL Plateau

Your fitness (CTL) progresses according to the specific phase of the plan you are in. It is normal to expect a slight plateau during the peak weeks after the higher volume build phases.

Read this article to understand more about TrainingPeaks metrics and your performance.

Build is probably the toughest phase of your training. The volume of work is at its highest, strengthening your muscular and anaerobic endurance.

During the Peak Phases, you will be preparing for the specific demands of race day, building confidence, fitness and skill. The focus is less about the total volume of training and more about the quality of the key workouts.

Your plan is structured to avoid overtraining or injury with the right mix of intensity and rest to produce race-readiness for your event.

So Why Does CTL Plateau?

TrainingPeaks metrics can be biased towards volume. High training volumes necessary to build a wide base of strength endurance usually produce high TSS's that elevate CTL.

As you approach your race you need to capitalise on that strong foundation of fitness and sharpen your racing skills to achieve your highest potential peak fitness for race day. You are no longer training at high volume, more focussing on high-quality, race practice workouts.

Metrics are helpful and can be motivational, however, it is important not to be led too strongly by them. Understanding yourself, how you feel throughout your training and seeing some real results in threshold progressions is the best guide.

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