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| TRAINING WITH POWER -- AN INTRODUCTION |
I have been using a Powertap for years, and a power-based indoor trainer for even more. But, it has not been until the last few years that on-bike power meters (such as PowerTap, SRM, Ergomo, Polar) have started to gain popularity among amateur racers. Now, I wonder how I ever coached or raced without one! This article is designed to introduce the basics of training with power--the tip of the iceberg! Measuring Intensity The most basic purpose and benefit of the Power Meter, in my view, is to obtain a direct, precise measure of training intensity during your riding. For about two decades, many cyclists have used a heart rate monitor and/or their owned perceived exertion to measure and quantify the intensity of their training efforts. Those methods, however, are indirect, less precise measures of training intensity that can be affected by many things other than the actual intensity of your effort (e.g. heart rate "lag", adrenaline, heat or cold, hydration, recovery levels, mood, etc.) Power meter is direct method of gauging intensity, which can give you consistent confidence, from ride to ride and from interval to interval, about your intensity level. Measuring Improvements in Your Performance With a power meter, you can accurately determine whether you can produce more power in a given situation. Analyzing power meter files after rides and races, and over time, will help you improve. For example, you can compare power output trends over time in consistent situations to determine whether you've improved and by how much. It's like conducting a performance test in a lab, but you can do it yourself on the bike. With this knowledge, you can (often with a coach) determine how to adjust your training schedule to improve particular types of fitness where you lack adequate improvement. Understanding the Demands of Your Events Power Meters can help you understand, and thus better prepare for, the demands of racing. Do you have the levels of fitness generally needed for your targeted race? By using a power meter in races, you can analyze the files after the race to determine what you are lacking and how you can improve for the next similar race. Again, this is the tip of the iceberg! For a fantastic informational resource on training with power, check out trainwithpower.net ! |
ARCHIVED TIPS: |
| TRAINING WITH POWER -- AN INTRODUCTION |
| CYCLING PSYCHOLOGY: CONFIDENCE |
| MTB RACES: OVER IN LESS THAN ONE LAP? |
| PACELINE ETIQUETTE: THE UNTOLD STORY |
| ROOTS, ROCKS AND OTHER OBSTACLES ON A MODERATE CLIMB |
Copyright © 2006 Millennium Cycling, LLC. All Rights Reserved.
None of the information found on millenniumcycling.com is intended to be specific advice for individual athletes.
If you follow the information found on millenniumcycling.com, you do so at your own risk.
You should consult with your physician before beginning any exercise program.