Working with your Watts

Once you’ve completed your tests you’ll have the numbers you need to calculate the various zones from which your training plan can be built.

The science of training is an incredibly complex and ever-changing subject that can’t be covered sufficiently in the space available here. Luckily there are loads of sources available that will provide you with the information you need to turn your power data into a workable training plan. In terms of books Training and Racing with a Power Meter by Hunter Allen and Andrew Coggan is still pretty much the bible when it comes to power-based training. Andrew Coggan also helped create the zones and algorithms behind the popular and effective Training Peaks software. Impersonal algorithm-based training plans or online guides will never be able to replicate the more holistic insight, real-world flexibility and motivation that can be provided by an experienced coach though.

As well as being useful for devising a training plan, power meters are vital for tracking the effects and improvement that plan is having. Compared to other ways you could spend your money to try and buy speed, a power meter and a coach are extremely cost effective when it comes to real, measurable gains.

In other words, if you’re really serious about getting faster this summer then a power meter and a coach is the best way to make it happen.