Epic fail in my 2nd FTP test

[UltraRunner_ZA]

So on Saturday my coach sends me out into the cradle to go and execute 3 months of solid training for another FTP test. 

 

I recently acquired a new power meter ( Garmin Vector 2s ) which also changed my pedal from Shimano to Look.

 

I was looking forward to the test as I could see my power well above the numbers I had in the previous months during under-overs training.

 

Low and behold I ride into the cradle and failed miserably not even averaging more than 70% of my previous FTP. Thing is my speed was faster but I think my gear selection let me down. I really feel like an Idiot but I guess this is how we learn.

 

I just recently got into cycling (road) because I want to compete at ironman this year. I come from the Mountain Ultra running scene and xterra.

 

Anyways just feeling down at the moment! the worst was that i got a flat on the way back to my car

[Jaco-fiets]

Get yourself a kikr and do your hard riding on that (as well as testing). On the days you do go outside for riding just enjoy and go long

[Thomo]

Agreed.

Indoor testing ensures consistency.

[J Wakefield]

So on Saturday my coach sends me out into the cradle to go and execute 3 months of solid training for another FTP test. 

 

I recently acquired a new power meter ( Garmin Vector 2s ) which also changed my pedal from Shimano to Look.

 

I was looking forward to the test as I could see my power well above the numbers I had in the previous months during under-overs training.

 

Low and behold I ride into the cradle and failed miserably not even averaging more than 70% of my previous FTP. Thing is my speed was faster but I think my gear selection let me down. I really feel like an Idiot but I guess this is how we learn.

 

I just recently got into cycling (road) because I want to compete at ironman this year. I come from the Mountain Ultra running scene and xterra.

 

Anyways just feeling down at the moment! the worst was that i got a flat on the way back to my car

 

Maybe you fatigued etc, so many variables that contribute to a performance test.

['Dale]

Your new PM accurately calibrated and all that?

[Patchelicious]

If the FTP test were done on two different PMs, I would be sceptical of comparing the results.

 

Try limiting the variables. Same fatigue, same PM etc....

[NotSoBigBen]

Numbers are not the end of the world ....

[Patchelicious]

Numbers are not the end of the world ....

That's like when a guys with a small one says size doesn't matter

 

Numbers rule!

[NotSoBigBen]

That's like when a guys with a small one says size doesn't matter

 

Numbers rule!

Probably .... Hey I was trying to help him feel better ????

[VicanZA]

Enjoy the journey, the numbers don't matter as per Ben.

[Thomo]

That's like when a guys with a small one says size doesn't matter

 

Numbers rule!

 

Are those not the same guys chasing the big FTP numbers.?

[J Wakefield]

Garmin pedals are finicky in terms of the correct torque when being fitted. when the torque is out even by a small amount the data is incorrect.

 

Make sure they fired and torqued correctly.

[Sidekick Racer]

The difference between this test and the previous test is too great. There is definitely a variable that has led to inaccurate data being given.

 

Like mentioned above, I would assess elements where the issue might have crept in.

[Patchelicious]

How did you do your first test?

 

Maybe go try it again with that PM?

[Spinnekop]

If the FTP test were done on two different PMs, I would be sceptical of comparing the results.

 

Try limiting the variables. Same fatigue, same PM etc....

This. 

[Saudiq]

I've created a separate topic looking for testing areas but what the guys recommended was using 5mins flat out X 2 and taking 75% of that amount as your FTP. I've looked at my previous stats and it was pretty accurate.

 

So maybe you should do the same?

 

I also agree that you should retest because you may have been fatigued. You've done a 3 month program and may not have been fully rested to get a proper reading.