Bike Testing - HR - Measuring Progress.
So, I've just finished my bike test for the end of the Get Faster Plan. I train with heart rate and I find myself wondering once again, how do we measure progress when we train/test with heart rate? I've had varying results from the OS to now, anywhere from 177 in January, to 165 in Feb, 171 in March and 173 in May. And then today's test came in at 168 across 40 mins.... I've dropped about 10-12 pounds (depending day and time of weigh ins) since Jan, but know this doesn't relate as much as it does for power athletes who can measure w/kg etc.
So, how do we measure/evaluate the progress using heartrate? I know improvements are being made, but wondered which is better longer at a higher hr or harder at a lower hr? Is that how we measure? I sound crazy now, time for dinner! Look forward to any insights.
Comments
Back when I trained with HR, I tried to do my testing in a protected environment, either on a trainer, or along a wooded little used 5 mile route in a park. I used speed to tell mehow I was doing. If my HR was the same, but I was going faster, that was progress. I've got to say, the $$$ I spent on a power meter was the second best Triathlon investment I've made, after an aero helmet (2-3% increase in speed for $175).
Watt Al said.
The best venue(s) would be hilly or a long climb, to minimize the effects of wind.
Strava would also offer you a way to record your times and set new PR's over a variety of courses that you are likely already riding.
If it were me, I would take HR out of the noise. That is, just measure speed on hilly courses over time. Getting faster = a combination of stronger and lighter. No real need to attach "HR up or down" to those. Focus on "was I faster?"