How Quickly Can Cyclists Increase Functional Threshold Power (FTP), with Tim Cusick (#284)

OVERVIEW
Following their episode on aerobic training, CTS Coach Adam Pulford and Tim Cusick (Head Coach at Basecamp and TrainingPeaks WKO Product Leader) dig into Functional Threshold Power (FTP) training in Episode #284 of "The Time-Crunched Cyclist Podcast". This is one of the clearest, accessible, and practical explanations of FTP training you'll ever hear. They talk about what's happening in your body, how long each phase of FTP training should take, what interval durations/frequencies/intensities to use, and what adaptations to expect if you're a relative beginner cyclist or a very experienced athlete.

Topics Covered In This Episode:

• You are not your FTP!
• What's happening in the first 2-4 weeks of FTP Training?
• What you'll feel after 2-4 weeks of FTP Training
• What's happening 4-8 weeks into FTP Training?
• Diminishing returns after 10-12 weeks of FTP Training
• Training intensity ranges for FTP workouts
• Recommended durations for FTP intervals
• Frequency of FTP Workouts per week

Resources

• Tim at Basecamp: https://www.joinbasecamp.com/tim-cusick 
• Tim on IG https://www.instagram.com/tim.cusick_coach/
• Stress vs Strain: Difference Between Stress and Strain - GeeksforGeeks https://www.geeksforgeeks.org/physics/difference-between-stress-and-strain/

Guest Bio:

Tim Cusick is a world-class cycling coach, a leader in data analytics for endurance sports, an educator, and an innovative business leader. Tim works with Olympians, world champions, and more, including Amber Neben and Rebecca Rusch. As a data analytics leader, Tim is an acknowledged expert in the field for endurance athletes. He is the TrainingPeaks WKO product leader, 
codeveloper of WKO5, and Instructor: Advanced Training with Data. As an educator, Tim has presented at USA Cycling summits, TrainingPeaks Endurance Summits, TrainingPeaks University, and more. Tim is also the founder of BaseCamp, which is driven by Tim’s philosophy of bringing together the science of data and the art of coaching. His values-based approach focusing on shared vision and team building allows for the construction of dynamic and purposeful organization development.

HOST
Adam Pulford has been a CTS Coach for nearly two decades and holds a B.S. in Exercise Physiology. He's participated in and coached hundreds of athletes for endurance events all around the world.

Listen to the episode on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Stitcher, Google Podcasts, or on your favorite podcast platform

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