functional threshold power

Definition

The maximum power output a cyclist can sustain for roughly an hour without blowing up, measured in watts and used to set training zones. It's cycling's version of lactate threshold, now with more expensive gadgets to measure your suffering precisely.

Example Usage

After his FTP test revealed 250 watts, his coach programmed sweet spot intervals at 88-93% of that threshold.

Origin

Popularized by cyclist and coach Andrew Coggan in the early 2000s for power-based training

Fun Fact

FTP testing involves 20-60 minutes of maximal sustainable effort, making it one of the most dreaded workouts in cycling despite being 'just a test.'

Source: Cycling training methodology and power-based training protocols

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