8 Weeks Sportive Programme: A Complete Guide to Preparing for Your Cycling Event
- Richard Keenlyside
- Sep 18
- 3 min read
TLDR
The 8 Weeks Sportive Programme is a structured cycling training plan tailored for beginner and intermediate riders. Focusing on heart rate zones rather than power, it prepares athletes to confidently complete their first or second sportive by gradually improving endurance, strength, and overall cycling fitness.
Why Choose an 8 Weeks Sportive Programme?
Preparing for a sportive can feel daunting, especially if it’s your first time tackling long distances. The 8 Weeks Sportive Programme offers a clear, manageable structure that balances training volume and recovery, helping cyclists build endurance and strength without risking overtraining. Designed by Richard Keenlyside of Elite Tri Coaching, this plan guides riders through a progressive schedule that fits seamlessly into everyday life.
Who Is This Sportive Training Plan For?
The plan is aimed at beginner and intermediate cyclists. If you are training for your first sportive or looking to improve on a previous performance, this programme will give you the foundation and confidence to succeed.
Unlike advanced plans that rely heavily on power metrics, this cycling training plan is based on heart rate zones, making it accessible to riders who may not have invested in a power meter but still want structured, data-driven training.
Structure of the 8 Weeks Sportive Programme
The programme is designed to build fitness systematically over eight weeks. Here’s what to expect:
Frequency: Four cycling sessions per week
Average Weekly Training Time: Around eight hours
Longest Ride: Up to five hours, to simulate sportive conditions
Tools & Integration: Structured workouts can be synced with apps like Zwift and TrainerRoad, as well as devices such as Garmin and Wahoo.
Sample Weekly Breakdown
Interval Session: Heart rate–based session to improve aerobic fitness
Endurance Ride: Longer steady rides to build stamina
Recovery Spin: Light cycling for active recovery
Long Weekend Ride: Gradual progression leading up to a sportive-distance simulation
This balance ensures that riders progressively adapt, while still prioritising recovery.
Benefits of the 8 Weeks Sportive Programme
Structured and Progressive: Each week builds on the last, avoiding sudden jumps in intensity.
Beginner-Friendly: Focuses on heart rate rather than power, making it accessible to more riders.
Compatible with Training Apps: Easily syncs with platforms like Zwift and TrainerRoad.
Event-Specific: Tailored for sportive preparation, ensuring readiness for the unique demands of long-distance cycling.
Coach-Designed: Developed by Richard Keenlyside, an experienced triathlon coach, ensuring expert guidance.
Common Mistakes Cyclists Make Without a Training Plan
Overtraining: Riding hard every session without structured recovery.
Undertraining: Lacking the long endurance rides needed for sportive success.
Inconsistency: Missing key sessions due to lack of structure.
Ignoring Recovery: Not allowing the body time to adapt and grow stronger.
The 8 Weeks Sportive Programme eliminates these pitfalls by providing a proven roadmap.
FAQs About the 8 Weeks Sportive Programme
1. Do I need a power meter for this plan? No, the training is based on heart rate zones, making it more accessible.
2. Can I use this plan indoors? Yes, sessions can be uploaded to Zwift and TrainerRoad for indoor cycling.
3. How many hours per week will I need to train? The average is around eight hours per week, with one long ride typically scheduled on weekends.
4. Is this plan suitable for my first sportive? Absolutely. It is specifically designed for beginners and intermediates tackling their first or second sportive.
5. Do I need a TrainingPeaks Premium account? No, a free TrainingPeaks Basic account is included with the plan.
Final Thoughts
The 8 Weeks Sportive Programme is an effective and practical training plan that empowers beginner and intermediate cyclists to achieve their sportive goals. With structured workouts, progressive endurance building, and heart rate–based training, this plan removes the guesswork from preparation and ensures riders arrive at their event confident and ready to perform.
Richard Keenlyside is a certified Triathlon Coach with extensive experience. For inquiries, please reach out via Elite Tri Coaching Contact or email hello@elitetricoaching.com.
Additionally, you can subscribe to the newsletter at Elite Tri Coaching at https://www.elitetricoaching.com.
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