Published May 10, 2020 · Updated Jul 25, 2020
We recap the results of following AI Endurance’s cycling training plan that saw our FTP grow according to AI Endurance’s predictions, following the instructions on how to improve FTP.
We - Dominik and Markus of AI Endurance - have been training for Paris to Ancaster 2020 , a gravel grinder race that was supposed to happen on April 26th 2020 but was cancelled because of Covid-19.
Nevertheless, we stuck to AI Endurance’s 8 week cycling training plan and saw great improvements. If you missed earlier posts about our journey, you can find them here:
Dominik grew his FTP to 283 W in 8 weeks, slightly better than the prediction of 261 W, achieving a new PB with AI Endurance’s individualized training plan. His thoughts:
Markus grew his FTP to 299 W in 8 weeks, also slightly better than AI Endurance’s prediction of 293 W. His thoughts:
Check out Markus’ FTP test on Strava:
Also, see how his FTP improved over time compared to AI Endurance’s predictions:
Don’t waste your time with one-size-fits-all training plans. Use AI Endurance’s predictive data-driven approach instead to improve your FTP and get that PB! Get your own personalized training plan today!
by Stefano Andriolo. Building on previous work, we refine a method to accurately determine the relationship between DFA alpha 1 and power. This method can be used to track fitness and thresholds of an athlete. We find in some cases ramp detection tends to overestimate thresholds, a finding mirrored in recent physiological papers. On the other hand, thresholds based on clustering of DFA alpha 1 values tend to agree well with this new method. We propose a hybrid lab and everyday workout experiment to further study the relationship.
by Stefano Andriolo. We demonstrate a universal relationship between cycling power and DFA alpha 1 from every day workout data that allows accessible and regular tracking of aerobic and anaerobic thresholds without the need of an exercise lab or even a dedicated testing protocol.
Power meters are costly and we often can't afford one on every bike we own. AI Endurance calculates cycling power from activities without a power meter using heart rate, cadence and DFA alpha 1. The results are generally more accurate than speed based estimates such as Strava's estimated power. All you need is a heart rate monitor and ideally a cadence sensor on your bike and AI Endurance will estimate your power for every ride.
We compare polarized training, threshold training and AI optimized endurance training. AI optimized training yields the best results, followed by polarized training with threshold training in third. The results are inline with current exercise physiology research. If the training composition is not optimized to the individual athlete, substantially smaller gains are to be expected.
