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This may be one of those "What can I use instead of the CTS Field Test for setting training zones" posts ;-)
Recall, the CTS Field Test is basically:
-- 8 minute all-out TT.
-- 10 min recovery.
-- 2nd 8min TT.
-- set training zones from average power, of the higher of the 2 TTs.
I've been puting off doing the Carmichael-prescribed Field Test for a couple weeks, now ... haven't wanted to usurp or pre-empt one of my usual rides, and I need to get moving on the program.
On yesterday's group ride, on one of the climbs (about 5% avg grade):
-- 15:40 total
-- Power Avg for entire climb = 244 watts
8 Minute Power - Moving Averages (looked at every possible 8 minute period, within the climb):
-- 258 watts, Maximum 8 min period.
-- 248 watts, Mode - most frequently occuring 8 min power.
Notes:
-- pretty hard effort, but not race pace, not truly 'all out'.
-- was likely holding back a bit, in anticipation of remaining climbs on the ride.
What do you guys think, for setting the CTS training zones:
-- Take my highest 8 min power (258 watts). Or,
-- Add a few %, say to 265 or 270 watts, to account for not riding 'all out'.
Recall, the CTS Field Test is basically:
-- 8 minute all-out TT.
-- 10 min recovery.
-- 2nd 8min TT.
-- set training zones from average power, of the higher of the 2 TTs.
I've been puting off doing the Carmichael-prescribed Field Test for a couple weeks, now ... haven't wanted to usurp or pre-empt one of my usual rides, and I need to get moving on the program.
On yesterday's group ride, on one of the climbs (about 5% avg grade):
-- 15:40 total
-- Power Avg for entire climb = 244 watts
8 Minute Power - Moving Averages (looked at every possible 8 minute period, within the climb):
-- 258 watts, Maximum 8 min period.
-- 248 watts, Mode - most frequently occuring 8 min power.
Notes:
-- pretty hard effort, but not race pace, not truly 'all out'.
-- was likely holding back a bit, in anticipation of remaining climbs on the ride.
What do you guys think, for setting the CTS training zones:
-- Take my highest 8 min power (258 watts). Or,
-- Add a few %, say to 265 or 270 watts, to account for not riding 'all out'.