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The Application of Critical Power, the Work Capacity above Critical Power (W'), and its Reconstitution: A Narrative Review of Current Evidence and Implications for Cycling Training Prescription
Chorley, Alan Lamb, Kevin L.
Chorley, Alan
Lamb, Kevin L.
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Abstract
The two-parameter critical power (CP) model is a robust mathematical interpretation of
the power–duration relationship, with CP being the rate associated with the maximal aerobic steady
state, and W' the fixed amount of tolerable work above CP available without any recovery. The aim
of this narrative review is to describe the CP concept and the methodologies used to assess it, and
to summarize the research applying it to intermittent cycle training techniques. CP and W' are
traditionally assessed using a number of constant work rate cycling tests spread over several days.
Alternatively, both the 3-min all-out and ramp all-out protocols provide valid measurements of CP
and W' from a single test, thereby enhancing their suitability to athletes and likely reducing errors
associated with the assumptions of the CP model. As CP represents the physiological landmark that
is the boundary between heavy and severe intensity domains, it presents several advantages over the
de facto arbitrarily defined functional threshold power as the basis for cycle training prescription
at intensities up to CP. For intensities above CP, precise prescription is not possible based solely
on aerobic measures; however, the addition of the W' parameter does facilitate the prescription of
individualized training intensities and durations within the severe intensity domain. Modelling of W'
reconstitution extends this application, although more research is needed to identify the individual
parameters that govern W' reconstitution rates and their kinetics
Citation
Chorley, A., & Lamb, K.L. (2020). The Application of Critical Power, the Work Capacity above Critical Power (W'), and its Reconstitution: A Narrative Review of Current Evidence and Implications for Cycling Training Prescription. Sports, 8, 123
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MDPI
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Sports
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