We just finished up a volume and recovery phase which means it's time to step up the intensity. Our yearly plan is periodized this way to help athletes to adjust to snow with some longer volume training, then reintroduce intensity to increase our ski-specific aerobic capacity. We don't want or need to be peaking in December which is why certain elements of volume-focused and intensity-focused blocks will continue to be integrated into our weekly plans.
Both the Junior and Masters plans incorporate longer speeds and L4 intervals this week. The Elite plan continues to mirror the Super Tour calendar, but if you are not racing this weekend we recommend some L4 intervals and easy distance (see plan).