How to train for Badlands
Badlands is the wildest gravel challenge in Europe, traversing the Gorafe Desert, Tabernas Desert, Cabo de Gata, and the slopes of the Sierra Nevada.
Entries: Registration opens in late autumn with strict caps for the unsupported desert race.
What Badlands demands
Complete self-sufficiency, extreme desert heat followed by freezing mountain temperatures at 2,000 meters, and rugged terrain.
Your preparation roadmap
24 weeks recommendedWinter on the trainer
Build ultra-distance aerobic durability, sleep-deprivation resilience and low-intensity pedaling economy.
4x30 min at 70 to 75% FTP focusing on smooth pedaling efficiency.
Back-to-back 6-hour outdoor rides with fully loaded bags and gear.
4x12 min at 55 rpm at 85% FTP simulating loaded climbing.
75 min indoor trainer session in warm room with electrolyte monitoring.
Routes (approximate, recent editions)
- About 750 to 800 km and 15,000 m of climbing across deserts and high mountain ranges
Key climbs & sectors
- Sierra Nevada Desert Passes
Frequently asked questions
How hard is Badlands?
Complete self-sufficiency, extreme desert heat followed by freezing mountain temperatures at 2,000 meters, and rugged terrain.
How many weeks do I need to train for Badlands?
We recommend 24 weeks of structured training to build a durable aerobic base, sustained climbing or gravel power, and event-specific stamina.
Can I prepare for Badlands indoors on a trainer?
Build ultra-distance aerobic durability, sleep-deprivation resilience and low-intensity pedaling economy. High-quality interval workouts and threshold blocks are often more time-efficient on an indoor trainer.
What are the key climbs and sectors of Badlands?
Sierra Nevada Desert Passes. Official routes can vary across editions — always verify current course details on the official website.
When do entries open for Badlands?
Registration opens in late autumn with strict caps for the unsupported desert race. Consult the official site at https://badlands.cc for entry details and registration openings.
Build your Badlands plan
Register free to get a 24-week preparation preview for Badlands. The full schedule, editing and plan activation are part of PRO.
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Ready to train for Badlands?
Get your 24-week preparation preview today on TrainCraft.
TrainCraft is not affiliated with Badlands. Route figures and elevations are approximate and based on recent editions. Always verify current routes, dates and entry regulations on the official Badlands website.