How to train for We Ride Flanders
We Ride Flanders gives amateurs the chance to test themselves on the exact cobbled climbs and sectors of the Ronde van Vlaanderen the day before the pro race.
Entries: Entries open in late autumn for the sportive held the day before the pro race.
What We Ride Flanders demands
Explosive power to clear 20 percent cobbled slopes like Koppenberg and Paterberg, plus bike handling on uneven stones.
Your preparation roadmap
16 weeks recommendedWinter on the trainer
Focus on short punchy 1 to 3 minute maximal efforts to mimic the steep bergs of the Flemish Ardennes.
6x2 min at 115 to 125% FTP with 2 min recovery simulating steep cobbled bergs.
3 sets of 4x1 min at 120% FTP with 1 min rest between reps.
4 to 5 hours outside with repeated steep short climbs.
3x8 min at 60 rpm at 90% FTP to build seated power on rough stones.
Routes (approximate, recent editions)
- Long route — about 240 km from Antwerp or Bruges over all major bergs
- Medium route — about 140 km from Oudenaarde
- Short route — about 75 km around Oudenaarde
Key climbs & sectors
- Oude Kwaremont
- Paterberg
- Koppenberg
Frequently asked questions
How hard is We Ride Flanders?
Explosive power to clear 20 percent cobbled slopes like Koppenberg and Paterberg, plus bike handling on uneven stones.
How many weeks do I need to train for We Ride Flanders?
We recommend 16 weeks of structured training to build a durable aerobic base, sustained climbing or gravel power, and event-specific stamina.
Can I prepare for We Ride Flanders indoors on a trainer?
Focus on short punchy 1 to 3 minute maximal efforts to mimic the steep bergs of the Flemish Ardennes. High-quality interval workouts and threshold blocks are often more time-efficient on an indoor trainer.
What are the key climbs and sectors of We Ride Flanders?
Oude Kwaremont, Paterberg, Koppenberg. Official routes can vary across editions — always verify current course details on the official website.
When do entries open for We Ride Flanders?
Entries open in late autumn for the sportive held the day before the pro race. Consult the official site at https://werideflanders.com for entry details and registration openings.
Build your We Ride Flanders plan
Register free to get a 16-week preparation preview for We Ride Flanders. The full schedule, editing and plan activation are part of PRO.
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TrainCraft is not affiliated with We Ride Flanders. Route figures and elevations are approximate and based on recent editions. Always verify current routes, dates and entry regulations on the official We Ride Flanders website.