Data Analysis in Cycling

Data analysis has revolutionized modern cycling. Professional teams and ambitious amateurs now use a variety of sensors, apps, and analysis platforms to optimize training, race strategy, and recovery. From power meters to GPS trackers to complex physiological analyses – the data flood in cycling is growing exponentially.

Fundamentals of Data Collection

Modern data analysis in cycling is based on capturing various metrics during training and competition. Sensors and measuring devices continuously record performance data that can be analyzed later.

Important Data Sources

Power Meters:

• Crank-based systems (e.g., SRM, Quarq)
• Pedal-based systems (e.g., Garmin Vector, Favero Assioma)
• Hub-based systems (e.g., PowerTap)
• Spider-based systems

GPS and Activity Trackers:

• Bike computers (Garmin, Wahoo, Hammerhead)
• Smartwatches with cycling functions
• Smartphone apps (Strava, TrainingPeaks)

Physiological Sensors:

• Heart rate monitors (chest straps, optical sensors)
• Lactate meters
• Oxygen saturation meters (SpO2)
• Body temperature sensors

Environmental Sensors:

• Altimeters (barometric)
• Temperature and humidity sensors
• Wind speed meters

Key Performance Metrics

Training Zones Based on Data

Data analysis enables precise definition of training zones based on individual performance parameters. This ensures targeted and effective training.

Power-Based Zones (by FTP)

Zone 1 - Active Recovery (below 55% FTP):

• Recovery rides
• Easy spinning
• Promotes blood circulation

Zone 2 - Endurance (56-75% FTP):

• Aerobic base
• Fat metabolism training
• Long, steady rides

Zone 3 - Tempo (76-90% FTP):

• Intensive endurance
• Tempo training
• Race pace

Zone 4 - Lactate Threshold (91-105% FTP):

• Threshold training
• FTP improvement
• Time trial intensity

Zone 5 - VO2max (106-120% FTP):

• Maximum oxygen uptake
• Interval training
• Short-term peak performance

Zone 6 - Anaerobic Capacity (121-150% FTP):

• Anaerobic capacity
• Sprint training
• Maximum load

Zone 7 - Neuromuscular Power (above 150% FTP):

• Maximum strength
• Sprints
• Explosive accelerations

Analysis Platforms and Software

Modern analysis platforms process the captured data and present it clearly. This enables athletes and coaches to make informed decisions.

Leading Platforms

TrainingPeaks:

• Professional training planning
• Detailed performance analyses
• PMC (Performance Management Chart)
• Coach-athlete collaboration

Strava:

• Social network for athletes
• Segment comparisons
• Community features
• Basic analyses free

Today's Plan:

• AI-supported training planning
• Automated periodization
• Nutrition planning
• Comprehensive data visualization

WKO5 (TrainingPeaks):

• Advanced analyses
• Power Duration Curve
• Individualized zones
• Advanced metrics

Golden Cheetah:

• Open-source solution
• Extensive analysis capabilities
• Available free
• High customizability

Performance Management Chart (PMC)

The Performance Management Chart is a central tool for monitoring training load, fitness, and freshness. It visualizes three important key figures over a longer period.

The Three Key Metrics

CTL (Chronic Training Load) - Fitness:

• Long-term training load (approx. 42 days)
• Shows current fitness level
• Increases with consistent training
• Basis for performance capacity

ATL (Acute Training Load) - Fatigue:

• Short-term training load (approx. 7 days)
• Shows current fatigue
• Responds quickly to training changes
• Important for recovery planning

TSB (Training Stress Balance) - Form:

• Difference between CTL and ATL
• Shows current freshness/form
• Negative = fatigued, Positive = recovered
• Optimization for competitions

Power Duration Curve

The Power Duration Curve (PDC) visualizes the maximum power an athlete can sustain over various time periods. It is an important tool for determining strengths and weaknesses.

Interpreting the PDC

Short-term Power (5-60 seconds):

• Sprint ability
• Anaerobic capacity
• Maximum strength

Mid-term Power (1-10 minutes):

• VO2max range
• Attacks and climbs
• Anaerobic endurance

Long-term Power (20-60 minutes):

• FTP range
• Time trial performance
• Aerobic base

Ultra-long-term (over 60 minutes):

• Endurance performance
• Fatigue resistance
• Fat metabolism

Practical Application in Training

The collected data is only valuable if it actively flows into training planning. Here are proven strategies for data usage.

Checklist: Effective Data Usage

• Regular FTP Tests: Every 6-8 weeks for zone adjustment
• PMC Monitoring: Weekly check of CTL, ATL and TSB
• Trend Analyses: Monthly evaluation of performance development
• Comparison Rides: Regular segments as benchmarks
• Recovery Tracking: Monitoring resting heart rate and HRV
• Training Planning: TSS goals based on periodization
• Race Analysis: Detailed post-race review of each race
• Technique Optimization: Cadence and efficiency analyses

Avoiding Common Mistakes

Too much data, too little action:

Many athletes collect vast amounts of data but draw no conclusions from it. Focus on the most important 3-5 metrics and derive concrete training adjustments.

Ignoring recovery data:

Performance data is important, but recovery markers such as resting heart rate, HRV (heart rate variability) and subjective well-being are equally crucial for long-term success.

Testing too frequently:

FTP tests and maximum loads heavily stress the body. One test every 6-8 weeks is completely sufficient. Testing too frequently leads to overtraining.

Data without context:

A single ride or a poor value says little. Always consider trends over several weeks and take external factors into account (sleep, stress, nutrition).

Data Analysis in Competition

During the race, real-time data provides valuable information for tactical decisions. Modern bike computers display all relevant metrics clearly.

Real-time Metrics During Race

Current Power:

• Shows if you're riding in the right zone
• Helps dose attacks correctly
• Prevents pacing too hard too early

Remaining Energy:

• Estimated reserves based on previous load
• W-Prime balance (anaerobic reserve)
• Helps with decision for attacks

Heart Rate:

• Control indicator for load
• Warning signal at unusually high/low values
• Supplement to power measurement

Comparison to Target Values:

• Is the pace sustainable?
• Are you on schedule?
• Can you still accelerate at the end?

Post-Race Review and Analysis

Detailed analysis after a race is crucial for future improvements. The following aspects should be examined:

Post-Race Analysis Checklist

1. Total Load: Check TSS, IF and average power
2. Power Distribution: Where were the most intense phases?
3. Pacing Strategy: Was the load even or too variable?
4. Critical Moments: Analyses of attacks, climbs, sprints
5. Energy Management: Where did you use reserves?
6. Comparison to Training Rides: How does race performance compare to training?
7. Physiological Response: Heart rate behavior, recovery
8. Tactical Decisions: Were attacks/pace increases successful?

Future of Data Analysis in Cycling

Technological development is advancing rapidly. In the coming years, the following innovations are expected:

Upcoming Technologies

AI-Supported Training Planning:

• Algorithms analyze millions of data points
• Automatic adaptation to individual responses
• Prediction of optimal training times

Non-Invasive Lactate Measurement:

• Optical sensors on the wrist
• Continuous monitoring without blood sampling
• Real-time feedback on metabolic status

Muscle Oxygenation (SmO2):

• Measurement of oxygen saturation in muscle
• Early warning system for exhaustion
• Optimization of interval training

Biomechanical Analyses:

• 3D movement analyses during riding
• Optimization of riding position
• Injury prevention

Integration of Multiple Data Sources:

• Combination of training, sleep, nutrition and stress data
• Holistic performance optimization
• Personalized recommendations

Data Protection and Ethics

With the increasing amount of data, the requirements for data protection and ethical use of information are also growing.

Important Considerations

Protect Personal Data:

• Control which data you share publicly
• Use privacy settings on platforms
• Be careful with location data

Doping Relevance:

• Performance data can be used for suspicion
• Anti-doping agencies can demand access to data
• Biological passport supplements traditional tests

Fairness in Competition:

• Access to data analysis creates inequalities
• Professional teams have clear advantages
• Discussion about minimum standards

Mental Health:

• Obsessive data monitoring can be harmful
• Balance between analysis and intuition important
• Joy of sport must not be lost