Training Plans
FREE Race Training Plans
These 8-week plans, co-authored by Mike Schultz, CSCS of Highland Training and Jeremiah Bishop of Bishop Training and a 2x US National Mountain Bike Champion (find out more about each below), are meant to be a guide for the self-coached athlete. However, no workout or program can be executed flawlessly. Therefore, use each workout as a goal for the day, whether indoors or outside.
You will need a Training Peaks account to use these programs. Accounts are free. Once you have an account, select your plan (below), and then follow the prompts to load the plan.
Types of Training Plans
Race plans are geared toward someone who can dedicate 3-5 days a week to riding and wants to finish strong. These plans use heart rate zones, perceived effort notes as the primary daily guide, and structured workouts guided by power.
The GRIT Race also includes a PERSONAL BEST PLAN geared toward someone who can dedicate 4-5 days a week to riding, likes to push limits with training, and is competitive. This plan has more hours and slightly more intensity, with more challenging back-to-back days than the finisher plan. In addition, this plan has notes on heart rate and power, along with structured workouts guided by power.
Looking for something different?
Check out the additional plans from Bishop Training. Jeremiah is a coach with decades of experience that brings practical expertise and race specific skill- technique discussion into his training style. You’ll find that his specialty mental skills and technical skills dovetail nicely.
Choose a 2026 Race Plan
Put in the work now, and you’ll be prepared for the race!
Good luck,
– Jeremiah and Mike
If you experience any issues with the FREE programs, email Mike Schultz at – schultz@highlandtraining.net.
Disclaimer: Participants should understand that physical exercise may be strenuous and may cause physical injury. It is your responsibility to consult with a physician prior to engaging in any exercise program. Your participation in these activities is entirely voluntary, and you assume all risks involved.
About Mike Schultz
Training plans are written by Mike Schultz, CSCS of Highland Training. Mike has been a full-time coach for 15 years and works with some of the nation’s best athletes. Mike has worked with more than 400 cyclists, leading many to podium finishes. Mike is a Certified Strength and Conditioning Specialist with the National Strength and Conditioning Association (NSCA-CSCS), Certified personal trainer (NSCA-CPT), and USA cycling certified coach. Find more about Mike and the coaches at Highland Training and thier resources and info.
About Jeremiah Bishop
Jeremiah Bishop of Bishop Training is a coach with decades of experience that brings practical expertise and race specific skill-technique discussion into his training style. As a two time US National Mountain Bike Champion, his specialty mental and technical skills dovetail nicely.
Jeremiah’s one-on-one coaching is for elite and developmental level athletes, but you can benefit from his experience and training expertise through his catalog of plans accessible through trainingpeaks.com.
