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Reliability of the Functional Threshold Power in Competitive Cyclists
Fernando Klitzke Borszcz1,2, Artur Ferreira Tramontin1, Vitor Pereira Costa1
1Center for Health and Sport Sciences, University of Santa Catarina State, Florianópolis, Brazil.
International Journal of Sports Medicine
|January 18, 2020
Summary
The 20-minute time-trial test is a reliable method for determining functional threshold power (FTP) in trained cyclists. This practical protocol accurately estimates FTP, making it a valuable tool for training and performance assessment.
Area of Science:
- Sports Science
- Exercise Physiology
- Cycling Performance
Background:
- Functional threshold power (FTP) is crucial for assessing cycling performance.
- The traditional 1-hour FTP test is impractical for many athletes.
- A 20-minute time-trial protocol is a proposed alternative for estimating FTP.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the reliability of a 20-minute time-trial protocol for FTP determination.
- To assess the reliability of the specific warm-up and pacing strategy within the protocol.
- To validate FTP estimation in trained cyclists using this shorter test.
Main Methods:
- 25 trained cyclists completed a familiarization session and two 20-minute time-trial tests separated by seven days.
- A specific 45-minute warm-up protocol preceded each test.
- Reliability was assessed using coefficient of variation (CV) and intraclass correlation coefficient (ICC).
Main Results:
- The 20-minute time-trial for FTP determination demonstrated high reliability (CV=2.9%, ICC=0.97).
- The associated warm-up showed moderate reliability (CV=5.5%, ICC=0.84).
- Pacing strategy was consistent, and changes in mean power between tests were trivial to small.
Conclusions:
- The 20-minute time-trial protocol is a reliable and practical method for estimating functional threshold power in trained cyclists.
- While the warm-up is less reliable, the overall protocol provides dependable FTP values.
- This method offers a viable alternative to the traditional 1-hour FTP assessment.
