Training For A Century

I read on-line how I should be training for a Century, but I can't do that. I spend 3 to 4 hours a day caring for my oldest, plus I work, plus I do spend some time with my wife and the other children, plus the rain in the Bay Area this year just won't stop. So here is a typical week:

Monday: 1 hr in gym
Tues: 1 hr in gym
Wed: 2 hour ride
Thurs: 1 hr in gym
Fri: 1 hr in gym
Sat: 3+ hour ride (Adding 10 or so miles each week)
Sun: Rest

The hour-long gym routines are 1/2 hour of aerobic activity (ellipticals, stairs, treadmill, or stationary bike), plus 20 minutes of weights and 10 minutes of stretching. Once a week (should be twice a week) the aerobic activity involves intervals.

I use a heart-rate monitor and shoot for 142 beats a minute for the aerobic activity, but actually do higher than that for the rides. Last Saturday I did a 3 hour ride to Uvas Canyon Park and back, and my average heart rate over the 3 hours was 145, including the downhill parts and the water/snack breaks. I like riding the road bike, because I can sustain a higher activity level than I could running. Long distance running hurts my ankles too much.

Last Wednesday I did the Metcalf short loop for the first time. That's a steep hill! My heart-rate was around 174 all the way up. I go from aerobic to anaerobic at around 165. At least, that is when I start panting.

Yesterday (yes, Monday, but it wasn't raining!) I did Bernal up to the County Park three times. I am not sure how much is improved technique, and how much is improved strength and condition, but climbing is improving.

I hope I am going to be ready for the I Care Classic Century next month.