Friday, August 28, 2015

Data vs. Perception - An Example of the Relationship

One of my athletes logged a bike workout this week where he said...

"Loved the workout tonight. I feel like my power is going the wrong way."

But when I looked at the workout, and how it compared, it was his best session under me, for the type of workout it was, and his best 6 min power output in a year. When I replied to him with this info... 

"I'm not seeing that at all Ron. I expect you're a little tired, but this was one of your best workouts in a long time. See attached. 

Remember, we haven't even touched this type of intensity in awhile, and you showed you're still very strong at it. I am excited to see what you do when I let you loose soon on some harder, longer rides. "

This clearly brought a reality to his perception, that only numbers and data can do. His reply was...

"Thanks for the email!

That is why we can’t train by perception. Data doesn’t lie. Feelings do. I really enjoyed the workout tonight. I enjoy feeling a little worked afterwards."

While I agree the data doesn't lie and feelings do, I believe you can and should train on perception, BUT USE THE DATA to refine that perception. When your perception is in line with reality, you can trust it better, especially in those moments in a race or workout where you are feeling good, so the numbers don't control you, they just guide you. 

Here are two of the charts I sent him...




Use the data to refine your perception, and I think you'll find a better sense of yourself and fulfillment in your training and racing. 

Coach Vance

Monday, August 24, 2015

Presenting Benchmark Testing for Power at Interbike


I am looking forward to presenting the Benchmark Testing For Power at the Slowtwitch Cycling Power Coaching Certification Course at Interbike. I will teach coaches how to test for Functional Threshold Power, as well as other key tests, and how to interpret the results, and where those athletes rate based on the tests, which is also coming out in my new book soon. (More on that in a later post). 

Interested in attending? You can register at https://www.bikereg.com/slowtwitchcyclingpower

Additional information about the Cycling Power Certification and Slowtwitch Coaching can be found here:http://www.slowtwitch.com/Training/Slowtwitch_Coaching_Certification_5285.html 
Coach Vance