Hey group,
I’m gonna attempt to register for Badlands 2027 this summer, its been a dream for a few years to attempt it and i love riding in Spain.
Its a little over 1 year away (if i make the registry), and I’d like to start prepping now on the system.
Anyone on here actually attended Badlands or its equivalent? Any suggestions on training formula i should consider on SYSTM?
How many hours are you training now?
Start from there on the general fitness All Purpose plan with the goal to finish at a high level of compliance (every workout if possible).
Then start again with the same plan and increase volume - eg if you are currently doing 5 hours a week, increase the plan to 7 or if you are doing 7 increase to 11. Add strength - especially core but all body will be helpful too along with some yoga.
You need to increase FTP and also get your legs and core adapted and that will come with frequency, volume and some intensity.
As you get closer to the event switch to the Event Prep - Gravel plan at max distance (322km) and max hours (14). You may want to try and do this plan twice and schedule a practice event or pick a shorter event to test your bike setup, nutrition, etc.
That event has 16,000 meters of climbing so on your outside rides try to get some saddle time climbing. Being on the trainer can prepare your legs for climbing but there is no substitute for staring up a long climb and finding the mental energy to stay focused on moving forward.
These events are all about the climbs. Everyone can go fast on the downhills but to really impact your time you need to gradually gain the ability to climb faster and have enough to power through the top of each climb.
Some other things to watch out for: (1) make sure your bike fits - you will want to avoid injury as much as possible and a bike that doesn’t fit will cause issues with more volume. (2) good hygiene with chamois and saddle cream to avoid saddle sores or other nerve issues, (3) lots of sleep and solid diet - high volume puts your body under a lot of stress so pay attention to recovery - that is where you make your gains.
Good luck!
