Power and Performance Field Test

[Gunchie]

Hi Lynda,

 

I'm on my third year of the 100 km Marathon Mountain Bike Race Personal Record Training Plan and have completed the Power and Performance Field Test quite a few times.  My average HR last year in March was 171 and was a good 100% effort.  This year I tested in January and it was 170.  I tested again yesterday but the test was a complete failure from having heart burn.  When I tested in January I felt it was a strong effort, but I was also was 15 pounds heavier.  My test results despite the heart burn showed improved distance, but I don't feel it was an accurate average HR nor did I feel it my best effort.  My question is how much does average HR change even though other elements improve?  Also, should I use the 170 average HR from January, the 171 from last year, or try to retest?  If a retest is necessary when is the best time to do it?

 

Thanks,

Nathan

[Lynda]

Nathan,

The goal is to go faster. Congrats on improving your distance.

In athletes with 2+ years of consistent training under their belts HR does not change much even while power increases. Once you hit around 40 yrs it is common to see a drop of a beat or 2 per min.

Go with your 170 bpm average.

Lynda

[Gunchie]

Thanks Lynda!

[Author]

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