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Computrainer for Testing

Patrick O'ConnellPatrick O'Connell
in Coaching Forum 🧢
Hi.  I'm a new EN member.  I've always raced with HR but use a Computrainer in the winter months.  I did the bike test today for HR.  I realized though that the CT tells me watts.  Based on reading the OS manual, it looks like I should make buying a power meter a priority.  My question is if I'm going to use the CT for most of my training over the next 6 months and plan to buy a power meter, should I use the avg. power of 251 I recorded from the 40 minute HR test this morning and use power instead of HR.  I think the answer is yes but want to confirm.  If yes, should I retest or go with the 251?  Thanks.

Comments

  • Coach PatrickCoach Patrick
    @Patrick yes you can use the 251 from the test (nice work!). I usually tell folks to try and sell their CT and put that towards a powermeter!!! Having power on the road and on race day is such a strategic advantage it's almost unfair!!!! image Remember, when you enter power data into the calculator, just save that if you want power numbers on your homepage, etc...if you click save under the HR numbers it will save/display those!
  • Patrick O'ConnellPatrick O'Connell

    Thanks for the guidance Patrick.  My next question is what brand/type of Power Meter to buy for my tri-bike.  I'll look on the wiki for suggestions.  Pat

  • Coach PatrickCoach Patrick
    @pat, we offer deals on powertaps (saris) and quarq, email rich@endurancenation.us for details on that. I personally run with a PT as I use the disc cover and am fine with it, but some folks love the utility of the quarq (any wheels you want cuz it's in the crank). I suggest you check in on the power/pace forums as well!
  • Patrick O'ConnellPatrick O'Connell

    Hi Patrick,

    Quick question- I'm using my computrainer using hte ergometer/handle bar controller.  Much easier to follow EN sessions vs. building a course to do so.  My 251 bike test was over 40 minutes because I was going to use HR.  My bike zones now seem a bit easy on the CT.  Should I do a short retest, increase the 251 a bit or leave it alone until the next test?  Thanks.  Pat

  • Coach PatrickCoach Patrick
    @Pat, I would bump them up to 265 and go from there...we are looking for the best sustainable power you can do across the intervals. Keep me posted!
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