So, I have this problem...

I am trying to get serious on the bike again. I want to go fast! I have plateaued with my speed. I have 'Bicycling for Women' - Gale Bernhardt and 'The Cyclists Training Bible' - Joe Friel and I want to set up a plan for going fast and getting into racing shape (and probably doing lots of TT's next season, just for fun).

Until the weather gets really bad again (new england, 21.1 mile round trip commute), I want to continue to commute to work most days. This goes against most of the sample training plans in the books. On those rides, I can't easily do a proper variety of workouts - per my schedule.

So here is the conundrum... To people who follow a basic periodization training plan - how do you incorporate / handle your leisurely (16-17mph) daily commute? Is it just 'normal' life and not time in the saddle?

It is hard being such a perfectionist... I haven't gotten on the bike yet today, because I am determined to start the training *today*. Daylight is gone in 4 hours! eeeep!