ARTICLE > M2 Newsletter

Back to M2 Newsletter Ι Back to Articles

THAT WHICH CAN BE MEASURED CAN BE IMPROVED

February '08

CycleOps

Ahh, but what to measure...

At M2 Revolution, we focus on the most relevant metric, how much power can one sustain for a given period of time - very simple, very direct, and easily tested with our primo CycleOps bikes which provide accurate and consistent measurement.

For more than 20 years I have experimented widely in different training approaches. During this same time I have shared my experiences with hundreds of coached athletes ranging from disciplined newbies, to professional Ironman Champions.

Outlined below are some of the basic things I have observed in these athletes over the years:

Keys to improving your Cycling Fitness:

  • M2 brand measured and focused indoor sessions of 50-70min duration will be what most advances the average athlete's fitness.
  • Consistency is important - once per week is the minimum, twice per week is preferred and will yield much greater results.
  • Come prepared to work - bring fresh legs, know your wattage numbers, and execute the workout as instructed.
  • Listen to your body. Feeling off your game for whatever reason > work just below that palpable edge where your body is sending unwelcome signals. Feeling sharp > enjoy the buzz and gravitate toward the higher end of theindicated intensity.

Common Training Mistakes and Misconceptions:

"I am training more so I must be getting stronger."

Often times I will have folks drop in on a periodic basis, and yet despite having followed a plan that increased their training, see no change in their wattage numbers.

More fit? Hardly. Fitness is most directly and simply measured by how much power you can sustain - not by how much you train! You are stronger if you can push more watts, not simply because you trained more and want to think so.

"My legs can't push the watts today because my plan called for weightlifting in the morning."

Athletes should always focus on sport specific activities first - if you wish to improve your cycling, make cycling your priority. You have a weekly one hour M2 indoor focused training session where you can advance your fitness? Don't squander the opportunity with extraneous activities.