We Compared ChatGPT, TrainerRoad & a Cycling Coach. Here's What We Learned.

Everyone has an opinion about the best way to train for cycling. Some swear by a coach. Others say TrainerRoad is all you'll ever need. And now more and more cyclists are asking the same question... Can ChatGPT actually build a training plan that's just as good? Instead of guessing, we spent an entire race season finding out. We trained with ChatGPT for nearly a year. We spent a full year working with a cycling coach in 2025. We also completed 5+ months using TrainerRoad. Then we sat down and compared everything—not opinions, but the actual training plans, workout structure, and race results. We break down: ✅ Training philosophy ✅ Weekly TSS ✅ Time spent in every training zone ✅ VO₂ Max, Threshold, Sweet Spot and Endurance work ✅ Interval design ✅ Recovery weeks ✅ Adaptability to busy schedules ✅ Race specificity ✅ The biggest strengths and weaknesses of each approach Most importantly, we answer the question every cyclist wants to know:Which one actually made us faster? Whether you're considering TrainerRoad, wondering if ChatGPT can replace a cycling coach, or trying to figure out the best cycling training plan for your goals, this episode should help you make a more informed decision. We also catch up on our latest training, share our thoughts on the newly released Specialized Tarmac SL9, discuss the new Specialized Crux 5, and talk about what's next for the rest of our racing season. ⏱ Chapters 01:21 - New Specialized Tarmac SL9 impressions 09:49 - The new Specialized Crux 5 19:05 - Recent training updates 29:26 - TrainerRoad vs ChatGPT vs a coach 32:55 - Training philosophy comparison 38:27 - Time spent in each training zone 46:06 - Weekly TSS comparison 50:16 - Interval design comparison 58:19 - Pros and cons of each approach ⚡ Follow us: INSTAGRAM: @bespoke_endurance TIK TOK: @bespokeendurance STRAVA:   / strava   &   / strava   SPOTIFY: Bespoke Endurance | Podcast on Spotify APPLE PODCASTS: https://podcasts.apple.com/podcast/id... IHEARTRADIO: https://iheart.com/podcast/259385937/ #TrainerRoad #CyclingTraining #ChatGPT #RoadCycling #CyclingPodcast