The Roadman Cycling Podcast The Smartest Way To Train For More Speed On Gravel - Rosa Klöser
Jan 9, 2026
Rosa Klöser, a professional gravel racer and researcher, shares her secrets to success after winning top events like Unbound and The Rift. She explains the importance of tailored training for gravel conditions, highlighting the role of VO₂ max and fatigue resistance over mere distance. Rosa discusses her unique training blocks and the significance of nutrition and pacing strategies. Plus, she shares personal race stories and innovative bike handling tips, making it clear that gravel racing requires not just strength, but smart approaches to strategy and preparation.
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Polarized Training For Gravel
- Train polarized: 80% easy endurance and 20% high-intensity VO2 max work.
- Include fat‑max/sweet‑spot endurance to mirror gravel's constant rolling demands.
Two-Day VO2 Block Structure
- Use short VO2 blocks: two days of intervals, one easy day, repeat 3–4 times.
- Follow the VO2 block with a dedicated volume block to consolidate gains.
Favorite 4×8-Min VO2 Session
- Use 4×8-minute intervals around ~106% FTP for sustained VO2 stimulus.
- Expect the pace to feel like a "slow death" but repeatable across efforts.