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FTP - Testing Outdoors or In

JustMikeJustMike
in General Training Discussions

So, I need to do my last power test of the OS.

 

I've been thinking about doing it indoors since it takes wind (it's VERY windy here)  and cars/intersections out of the equation.  The down side is that it is harder to really push indoors, but the environment seems much more repeatable.

 

Does anyone do this, or is it really better to find a place to test outdoors?

 

Thanks!

 

Comments

  • mgraffeomgraffeo
    Better to do it outdoors if most of your riding will be outdoors, or if you're going to use the number to create a pacing plan for a race outdoors. Indoor FTP is going to tend to be lower than outdoor.

    Since they're pretty spaced apart, some folks will find a course that they can drive to, and use that for FTP tests. No problem to flip-flop a Saturday and Tuesday if that's the situation you're in.
  • timdawg7timdawg7
    Is there a formula or some way to aproximate outdoor FTP using the indoor FTP?
  • mgraffeomgraffeo
    on the same bike, in the same position, a reasonable SWAG is about a 10% decrease indoors. Not exact, but close enough for government work...
  • JustMikeJustMike
    Well, you talked me into it. I'll drive out to part of old route 66 and give it a shot. image
  • mcstrangelovemcstrangelove

    I've had this same question.  All my tests have been indoors, but I'm planning to do my next test outside.  Question is:  if my FTP indeed increases, when I go back indoors on the trainer is it a bad idea to attempt to keep my "Outdoor FTP" numbers?  Or is that asking for injury/burnout?

  • Coach PatrickCoach Patrick
    @Mac, well, first test to see what the numbers really are. Then go for it. If it's too big to chew right now, then cut the difference (say 250 in, but 280 out, so call it 265 in) and start hammering.
  • scott dinhoferscott dinhofer
    i still can't figure out how to do a test outdoors, not sure i can find a 'flat' place around here that will take downhills out of the equation.... thoughts?
  • Keith WickKeith Wick
    I don't have a really flat route either, so I know that in order to maintain an accurate test I have to hit the downhills hard to maintain what I'm thinking are my goal FTP watts. I also make sure to keep my cadence as high as possible on the uphills so that I'm not mashing in order to get my FTP.
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