Question from Fr Hedler, Bischofsgrün: When planning the 2010 season, I realised that two of my planned marathons take place on consecutive weekends. The first (230 kilometres/3,100 metres in altitude) is one of my standard marathons in our region, the next one (Dolomiti: 138 kilometres/4,190 metres in altitude) is my highlight of 2010. Is one week enough for regeneration, or is it better to ride only a shorter version of the marathon, for example 100 kilometres, on the weekend before the Dolomiti? I am 56 years old and, apart from a few RTFs, I normally take part in four to five cycle marathons a year. Until now, however, there have been at least 14 days between two events.
Dr Björn Stapelfeldt: The answer to this question depends on the duration of individual regeneration, which is largely dependent on basic endurance. Basically, the better your endurance training, the shorter the breaks between two cycling marathons can be. But even very well-trained recreational cyclists should ideally take two weeks between such demanding competitions. Incidentally, the travelling time should not be underestimated.
Another question is the time of the marathon in the season and the number of races you have already completed. As a rule, races are digested better over the course of the season than at the beginning. The progression of the form curve immediately beforehand also plays a role here: if you are currently on an upward trajectory, you will also improve from marathon to marathon. Those whose form curve is pointing downwards will most likely maintain this trend.
It is also important to know which marathon is your priority. Here it seems to be the second (Dolomiti). In this respect, the marathon one week before should be seen as a preparation race: I recommend the shorter option you suggested - and with the handbrake on! Then the race can definitely have positive effects. In the week after, you should focus on regeneration and active recovery: Ride for five to ten hours in the compensation and basic area and ideally supplement this with a sauna, thermal bath and massages.
