Why does TrainAsONE seem to schedule hard workouts too soon after my race?

Why does TrainAsONE seem to schedule hard workouts too soon after my race?

By Dr. Sean Radford27th May 2025

If your post-race training plan feels too demanding, here’s what’s happening and what you can do:

Understanding Post-Race Planning in TrainAsONE

  • Unified Algorithm: Currently, TrainAsONE uses its primary training algorithm for all phases of training, including post-race periods. We have not developed a dedicated module specifically for tailoring post-race recovery.

  • The Complexity of Recovery: How and when an individual returns to training after a race is highly personal. It's influenced not just by physical recovery but also significantly by motivation. Many athletes prefer a complete and substantial break.

  • Current Limitations: Due to these complexities and certain assumptions in our current algorithm, especially after endurance events, the system might occasionally underestimate the amount of rest needed. This can result in a plan that pushes for a quicker return to intense training than you might feel ready for.

What You Should Do

  • Prioritise Your Feelings: This is an area we are actively looking to improve. For now, your body and mind are your best guides.

  • Adjust Your Plan: Don't hesitate to reduce the intensity, shorten, or even skip runs until you feel fully recovered and motivated to train again.

  • Schedule Definitive Rest: For proactive rest, please see our FAQ: ‘How do I schedule X days of rest following my upcoming race?’ This can help you manually build in a recovery period.

  • A Note on User Feedback: It's worth mentioning that some users who have followed their post-race plans have reported coping better than they expected, suggesting that personal expectation also plays a role. However, this should not replace sensible self-assessment of your recovery needs.

We appreciate your understanding as we continue to research and develop more nuanced post-race recovery planning.