FTP cycling zones vs. CPxx zones

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2010-03-09 3:17 PM

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Expert
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Subject: FTP cycling zones vs. CPxx zones
I base my training session related to FTP threshold % but I noticed that some websites, documents and books propose the training intensities as for CP30, CP60, etc.
How does level refer to the FTP%? I am getting crazy because it seems there is no direct relationship.
I guess that my FTP=CP60 but then, if I see the proposed training, they say 30-40mins at CP60 which is way to stressful even to think about it!
Then I decided to take the CP curve which is on my WKO+ software, update weekly automatically, but then I see that at 1h00 mark, that curve is much lower than my FTP.

Can somebody explain me how this relationship works?

2010-03-09 5:42 PM
in reply to: #2717085

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Subject: RE: FTP cycling zones vs. CPxx zones
How are you defining your FTP?

Your "threshold" in theory is the effort that you can sustain for about 1 hour. So while I don't agree with the terminology "CP60" (I'll explain below), it is actually a more accurate reflection of your true Fuctional Threshold Power.

Tests shorter than 1 hour to determine FTP need to be modified to take into account that there is significant anaerobic contribution to the power created. Allen & Coggen recommned using 95% of your 20 minute power.

There is also a test called Monod's Critical POwer, which uses one short and one long test to create a power "curve" (it's linear), and the slope of the line tells you your threshold power.

So the name "CP60" used by Friel, which stands for Critical Power for 60 minutes, is a misnomer. It's really just your threshold power.

You really should have no confusion because all these terms are referring to the same physiologic point...but unfortunately, not everyone prescribing or writing about the tests understands the phsyiology well enough to explain things.

Having a high profile, well respected, well read coach use incorrect terminology does not help matter's either.
2010-03-09 7:44 PM
in reply to: #2717085

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Subject: RE: FTP cycling zones vs. CPxx zones
I found Skiba's book "Triathlete's Guide to Training with Power" to be very helpful sorting this out.  (His other book is great too.)  This thread (on another site -- Skiba and Coggan weigh in) is also helpful.
2010-03-09 7:50 PM
in reply to: #2717085

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Subject: RE: FTP cycling zones vs. CPxx zones
After reading this, I feel really dumb.  Which is very normal for me.  What is an FTP... isnt that for sending flowers?


I just re read Adventurebears post and feel less dumb, but this is still the first I have heard of this... all relates to power meters right?

Edited by jspelay 2010-03-09 7:53 PM
2010-03-09 9:08 PM
in reply to: #2717539

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Subject: RE: FTP cycling zones vs. CPxx zones
check out this thread... the last post by Jorge addressed this pretty well I thought


http://www.beginnertriathlete.com/discussion/forums/thread-view.asp?tid=197930&posts=16&start=1





Edited by Gaarryy 2010-03-09 9:08 PM
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