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Acronym, Noun
FTP stands for Functional Threshold Power, the maximum average power a cyclist can sustain for an hour.
Example usage: 'My FTP is 250 watts.'
Most used in: Triathlon and endurance cycling circles.
Most used by: Serious cyclists who are looking to increase their performance.
Popularity: 8/10
Comedy Value: 2/10
Also see: Functional Threshold Power, Critical Power, Threshold Power, Maximum Sustainable Power,
What is FTP in Cycling?
FTP stands for Functional Threshold Power and is a cycling measurement used to assess the rider's power output. It is a measure of the maximum power a rider can sustain over a given time period, usually one hour. FTP is an important benchmark for cyclists as it can be used to track progress, set training zones and compare performance with other riders.
FTP is calculated by taking the average power output of a rider over a 20-minute time trial. This time trial should be completed at a hard, but sustainable, effort and is used to measure the rider's maximum sustainable power output. FTP is expressed as a percentage of the rider’s maximum power output, with the average FTP for an adult male being around 95-105%.
FTP is an important measure for cyclists and is used to set training zones and measure progress. By comparing FTP from one test to the next, riders can track how their performance is improving over time. It is also used to compare performance with other riders, with high FTP scores indicating that a rider has a good level of fitness.
The Origin of FTP in Cycling
FTP, or Functional Threshold Power, is a term used in cycling to refer to the highest power a cyclist can maintain for one hour. It is used to measure a rider’s fitness level and is a key metric when training and racing.
The term FTP was first used in the early 2000s in the US, primarily by coaches working with competitive cyclists. It was based on the concept of a rider’s ‘threshold power’, which is the highest power a rider can maintain for a sustained period of time.
FTP is now widely used in the cycling world, and is seen as a useful indicator of a rider’s performance. It is used by cyclists, coaches, race organisers and bike manufacturers alike, and is a key factor in winning cycling races.
FTP is a metric that has become integral to the sport of cycling, and it is here to stay.
