Phew, I totally underestimated this one. It’s a long while since I’ve done Jon’s Short Mix and I’d forgotten just what an absolute ass kicker it is.
When I looked at it, what I saw was the 10 minutes of tempo at the end. That looked ideal.
What I failed to notice was the sheer intensity of the first 5 efforts.
- 2x 1 minute @ 150% FTP
- 30s @ 64% FTP
- 2 minutes @ 75% FTP
And then the killers:
- 10 seconds @ 300% FTP
- 1 minute @ 75% FTP
Those all out sprints absolutely thrashed me.
I still have two more sub 1 hour workouts available that I am yet to complete. Jon’s Short Mix has a TSS of 44, and the other two are:
- Grin and Bear It – 40 minutes – 46 TSS
- Step by Step – 40 minutes – 53 TSS
When I was looking at it this afternoon, I think what I misunderstood was that a TSS of 46 over 40 minutes is likely less intense than a TSS of 44 over 30 minutes.
Honestly, I wasn’t looking for anything intense today. But that’s what I got. I came out of those first five efforts absolutely dripping. Thankfully the 10 minutes at tempo isn’t so bad. All part of the trickery. So you don’t remember it being quite as nasty 🙂
At this stage I have just two more rides to go in my Advent of Cycling challenge. I have no idea what these two rides will be, but most likely one will be a recovery ride.
I’m feeling bushed.
I mean, aside from this being a bit of a personal challenge, I seriously question any actual physical benefit this might have had on me. I think it’s probably been more detrimental than helpful.
Right anyway, I’ve spent more than enough time at this computer for one day. Time for a bath and bed.
