Ask a coach: 'When should I redo an FTP test?'

Your training zones need to reflect any increases in your FTP, but testing too often can have an adverse effect on your progression - here’s how to tread the tightrope

Male cyclist doing an FTP test
(Image credit: Future)

Doing an FTP test, or any maximal performance test for that matter, means taking time out of training. To perform optimally you need to taper beforehand and will likely need some recovery afterwards. That can mean you might miss anywhere between three and seven days of training!

However, the information gleaned from a performance test means that accurate cycling training zones can be calculated, which allows gains in specific areas to be targeted and therefore hopefully improve the quality of the cycling training plan.

Image shows James Spragg.
James Spragg

Sports scientist and coach James Spragg is one of the experts who will be answering your questions in Cycling Weekly's ASK A CYCLING COACH series which comes out every Wednesday. Working both in research and applied settings, he currently runs Intercept Performance Consultancy

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