Why run with Power.
Simply put, running power helps the runner normalise their effort under varying conditions. If a runner chooses to run by power, they can comply to their structured workouts while having the freedom to run on varying terrains.
For years power meters have been the standard in the world of performance cycling. They changed the sport dramatically and created a way for athletes to use data to their advantage and outperform traditional training methods. Finally, this technology is available to runners! As it did with cycling, power meters will revolutionize the way us runners train and race.
Benefits of power-based training:
Immediate and quantifiable feedback on your workouts
The ability to measure your running efficiency and wattage output
Maximise your running form and efficiency through micro-adjustments
Unlike traditional heart rate and pace training, power output is not influenced by external factors like heat, fatigue, and elevation. This allows you to get precise, measurable data.
Prevent overtraining and allow for predictable race performance.
Wattage based power zones for more precise training during each phase of your training cycle.
Racing with power provides a constant pacing strategy which prevents bonking
Running with Power FAQs:
Why Power? In one word, Precision. Power while running is measured in Watts which is an output of how much work your body is doing and how quickly it is doing that work. By knowing your power output, we can pinpoint your training, finding exactly what your critical power is at any given time. This provides us with the information we need to race and fuel in a more precise manner yielding the best results possible.
Why train with power? Training with power will build your endurance, increase your speed, make you stronger on hills races, improve your form and running efficiency. Pacing by power will yield predictable results,and prevent bonking during your next race as you can monitor your watts during a race to stay within your target zone and race at your personal best. Simply put: You get the most out of every second you are training when you are training with power.
What is the advantage of training with a power meter over heart rate and pace? Traditional methods of training using heart rate or pacing by perceived efforts can be impacted by external factors such as heat, wind, cardiac lag, fatigue and even caffeine intake.
Power output is constant and not affected by external factors, providing the most objective means of measuring your performance. At Sisu Racing we combine traditional means to performance measurements with wattage outputs to track your progression and formulate training plans and strategy. This guarantees peak racing performance and prevents overtraining or injury.
Why not? I can’t think of a good reason why you shouldn’t train with power for your runs.
Sisu Racing Triathlon Coach