Training Peaks – Definition & Detailed Explanation – Cycling Training and Fitness Glossary

What is Training Peaks?

Training Peaks is a web-based platform and mobile app designed to help athletes plan, track, and analyze their training. It was founded in 1999 by Joe Friel and Dirk Friel, both experienced endurance athletes and coaches. Training Peaks offers a variety of tools and features to assist athletes in optimizing their training and performance, including customizable training plans, workout tracking, performance analytics, and communication with coaches.

How to create a cycling training plan on Training Peaks?

To create a cycling training plan on Training Peaks, start by setting your goals and determining your target events or races. Next, input your current fitness level, available training time, and any other relevant information. Training Peaks will then generate a customized training plan based on your inputs and goals. You can further customize the plan by adjusting the volume, intensity, and frequency of your workouts.

What are the key metrics to track on Training Peaks for cycling training?

There are several key metrics to track on Training Peaks for cycling training, including:
– Training Stress Score (TSS): A measure of the overall workload of your workouts, calculated based on intensity and duration.
– Intensity Factor (IF): A measure of the relative intensity of your workouts, expressed as a percentage of your threshold power.
– Functional Threshold Power (FTP): The highest average power you can sustain for one hour, used as a reference point for setting training zones.
– Peak Power: The highest power output you can achieve for a given duration, such as 5 seconds or 1 minute.
– Training Zones: Specific power or heart rate ranges used to prescribe and monitor the intensity of your workouts.

How to analyze your cycling workouts on Training Peaks?

To analyze your cycling workouts on Training Peaks, start by reviewing the summary metrics for each workout, such as duration, distance, average power, and average heart rate. Next, examine the detailed graphs and charts provided by Training Peaks, including power distribution, heart rate zones, and cadence analysis. You can also compare your performance over time using the Performance Management Chart (PMC) and track your progress towards your goals.

What are the benefits of using Training Peaks for cycling training?

There are several benefits of using Training Peaks for cycling training, including:
– Customized Training Plans: Tailored to your goals, fitness level, and schedule.
– Performance Analytics: Detailed metrics and charts to track your progress and identify areas for improvement.
– Communication with Coaches: Ability to collaborate with a coach for personalized guidance and feedback.
– Integration with Devices: Sync data from cycling computers, power meters, and heart rate monitors for seamless tracking.
– Community Support: Connect with other athletes, share workouts, and gain motivation from the Training Peaks community.

How to integrate Training Peaks with other cycling apps and devices?

Training Peaks offers integration with a variety of cycling apps and devices to streamline data collection and analysis. To integrate Training Peaks with other apps and devices, follow these steps:
– Connect your cycling computer or GPS device to Training Peaks using the device’s software or app.
– Sync your workouts automatically or manually to upload data to Training Peaks.
– Use third-party apps like Strava, Garmin Connect, or Zwift to import and export data between platforms.
– Utilize Training Peaks’ API to build custom integrations with other apps and devices for a more personalized training experience.