Question 1

How often should I test my FTP?

Accepted Answer

Test your FTP every 4-8 weeks during a training block, or whenever you suspect significant fitness changes. More frequent testing isn't beneficial as FTP changes slowly. Some athletes use 'FTP detection' features in software like TrainerRoad that estimate FTP from workout data without formal tests. After a break from training, test before resuming structured workouts.

Question 2

Why does my power drop during long rides?

Accepted Answer

Power decline during long rides is normal due to glycogen depletion, muscle fatigue, dehydration, and core temperature rise. This is called 'cardiac drift' when heart rate rises while power drops. To minimize this: fuel properly (60-90g carbs/hour for long rides), stay hydrated, pace conservatively early, and train specifically for long-duration efforts to improve fatigue resistance.

Question 3

Is a power meter worth the investment?

Accepted Answer

For serious training, absolutely. Power meters provide objective data that heart rate and perceived exertion cannot match. They enable precise training zones, pacing in races, and accurate progress tracking. Costs have dropped significantly - pedal-based meters start around $300. If you train more than 5-6 hours per week with specific goals, a power meter will accelerate your improvement.

Question 4

What is a good FTP for my first year of cycling?

Accepted Answer

First-year cyclists typically achieve FTP of 2.5-3.5 W/kg depending on athletic background and training consistency. Someone new to exercise might reach 2.0-2.5 W/kg, while a former athlete could hit 3.0-3.5 W/kg. Focus on consistent training rather than comparing to others. Improvement of 10-20% in the first year is common with structured training.

Question 5

How accurate are different types of power meters?

Accepted Answer

Modern power meters are generally accurate within 1-2% when properly calibrated. Crank-based (SRM, Quarq) and pedal-based (Garmin, Favero) are considered most reliable. Hub-based can be affected by chain friction. Single-sided meters assume symmetry, which may not be true for everyone. Always calibrate before rides (zero-offset) and compare readings if using multiple meters.

Question 6

Why is my indoor power higher than outdoor power?

Accepted Answer

This is common and can occur because: indoors lacks wind resistance (easier to sustain power), no coasting or descending (continuous pedaling), controlled conditions (no weather variables), and different body position. Some riders see 10-20W higher FTP indoors. Many training platforms apply an outdoor 'adjustment' to account for this difference.

Question 7

How does altitude affect power output?

Accepted Answer

At altitude, lower air pressure means less oxygen per breath. Power typically drops 2-3% per 1000m elevation gain above 1000m, though this varies by individual. Acclimatization takes 2-4 weeks for partial adaptation. However, air resistance also decreases at altitude, partially offsetting the power loss for speed. For time trials, altitude trade-offs can favor faster times despite lower power.

Question 8

What is the relationship between power and speed?

Accepted Answer

Power determines speed, but the relationship isn't linear due to air resistance (which increases with the square of speed). Doubling your speed requires roughly 8x the power. At 15 mph, you might need 100W; at 20 mph, 175W; at 25 mph, 300W. Weight matters more at low speeds and climbing; aerodynamics matter more at high speeds on flat terrain.

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