Overtrained????

[Cassandra_Cain]

Hi....

Based on miles alone, I think it is almost impossible to quantify the overall effect.

I use software with my PowerTap that calculates the long-term overall training load.....which is based on volume-duration-intensity. Right now in fact, I'm taking some time off as I was overreaching a bit. The tell-tale signs for me were: a) my inability to replicate my power numbers from before and b) I really started to dread parts of my training and lost a lot of motivation.

Back to your question...

You certainly upped the mileage but what about the intensity and duration? Are you riding at a higher intensity this year? Are you riding more hours?

You can build your overall training load quite a bit, but it really needs to be scaled in a way that your body can handle it. Plus, giving yourself regular breaks, in the form of a slightly easier week every so often, helps me.

If you are feeling less motivated and having trouble replicating your best performances, then taking some time off as well as planning your training carefully seems wise.

Best of luck with your races!