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First 40 minute bike test

Hi everyone.  I am a new member so I apologize if this should have been posted elsewhere.  I did my first 40 minute bike test today to find FTP.  I felt like I was going quite hard but this was my first test and I am worried that I didn't go hard enough.  I would hate to be working off too low a HR.    

Todays results.  40 minute TT  176 foot elevation gain.  5-10 mph wind.  (was riding a one mile rectangle so equal riding into headwind and with tailwind)  12.23 miles, Average speed 18.3 mph, Average HR 145.

The reason I am concerned that HR number is lower than it should be is that I have had much longer rides with a higher average HR.  My most recent example includes stop lights and drafting with other people which should give my HR a break here and there.  The ride was 32.8 miles long took 1:53:38 included 450 feet of elevation gain Average Speed of 17.3 and average HR of 148. 

I have had other rides in the one hour to one and a half hour range with an average HR of 149-152.  

Should I retest or I am over thinking it?

Thanks,

Brandon 

 

Comments

  • Posted By Brandon Wilson on 30 Apr 2013 10:43 PM

    Hi everyone.  I am a new member so I apologize if this should have been posted elsewhere.  I did my first 40 minute bike test today to find FTP.  I felt like I was going quite hard but this was my first test and I am worried that I didn't go hard enough.  I would hate to be working off too low a HR.    

    Todays results.  40 minute TT  176 foot elevation gain.  5-10 mph wind.  (was riding a one mile rectangle so equal riding into headwind and with tailwind)  12.23 miles, Average speed 18.3 mph, Average HR 145.

    The reason I am concerned that HR number is lower than it should be is that I have had much longer rides with a higher average HR.  My most recent example includes stop lights and drafting with other people which should give my HR a break here and there.  The ride was 32.8 miles long took 1:53:38 included 450 feet of elevation gain Average Speed of 17.3 and average HR of 148. 

    I have had other rides in the one hour to one and a half hour range with an average HR of 149-152.  

    Should I retest or I am over thinking it?

    Thanks,

    Brandon 

     

    @Brandon - check out this thread recently started by Coach Patrick:  http://members.endurancenation.us/F...spx#143471

    Bottom line: If you use the HR numbers that your test gave you, then you up your effort and see what HR results from it.  This is an iterative process --- test and verify -- not an absolute.  Remember, your HR is dependent on many variables.  Only one of which is the amount of work your muscles are doing......

    Hope this helps.



  • Thank you Joe. That is very helpful. The posting you listed was really good too.
    Thanks again,
    Brandon
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