Would you like to determine your functional threshold power? Controversial take-who cares? FTP is a “driven parameter,” and Coach Adrian wants to find out the systems driving it. By understanding those systems, we go “beyond FTP” to understand why we’re applying certain processes to the body. With this “intentional sculpting,” we’re less likely to end up with unintended consequences or frustrating plateaus.

Coach Adrian’s preferred zone-setting method involves using INSCYD software, which helps unearth these “driving parameters” of physiology.

A Deeper Explanation: If athlete A and athlete B both have an FTP of 250W, that does not necessarily mean that they have identical physiology. Different systems contribute different amounts to make that power, with various results. Athlete A might have more of an “anaerobic endowment,” making more of their power anaerobically and with a higher maximum lactate flow rate (VLAmax). This athlete could produce more of the watts in a 20 minute power test using anaerobic systems than Athlete B.

Athlete B might have a lower VLAmax. They make more of their 20 minute power number using aerobic systems. Perhaps they have a higher VO2max, or oxygen flow rate. Their power is the same as Athlete A, but the physiological and metabolic systems responsible for its production are different. Or at least, work between the systems is differently distributed.

By understanding these driving parameters of physiology, Coach Adrian is more likely to come up with a training prescription that optimizes your performance for a goal discipline than a generic “FTP-based” approach.

The enhanced precision and specificity of INSCYD zone-based training can help you get the most out of your training plan and coaching support.

Even if you just have a heart rate monitor, or are using perceived exertion alone, Adrian’s understanding of physiology will still make him a great asset to you as a training plan designer.