BACKGROUND: The purpose of this study was to analyse recovery process differences using a multilevel approach between trained master and young cyclists during a week of training with the same external load. METHODS: Thirty-three trained male endurance cyclists, 15 young cyclists (age =27.33±5.16 years old), and 18 master cyclists (age =42.94±6.07 years old) participated in this study. In order to predict peak and endurance cycling performance the Lambert submaximal cycle test was performed before and after the training week. A typical training week was designed for this purpose. Each participant was given a training diary to record duration of training, distance covered, rate of perceived exertion, average heart rate (HR), and maximal heart rate (HRmax). Moreover, HR variability (HRV), mood states, and neuromuscular response were monitored every day throughout a training week. RESULTS: No significant differences were found in the average of velocity and of HR during the training week for both the young group and the master group (22.59±3.77 km/h vs. 23.22±3.06 km/h, P=0.603) and 128.94±6.44 vs.124.85±5.39 bpm, P=0.070), respectively. CONCLUSIONS: Both the young and the master cyclists showed similar fitness performances and a similar recovery process. However, the young cyclists exhibited a better HR variability response than the master cyclists.