Paw-er In-ter-vee-uhlz
Noun, Noun Phrase
Power Intervals are short, intense bursts of energy used to improve a cyclist's power and speed.
Example usage: 'I'm doing power intervals at the end of my duathlon training session today.'
Most used in: Duathlon events around the world.
Most used by: Duathlon cyclists who are looking to improve their performance.
Popularity: 8/10
Comedy Value: 5/10
Also see: Interval Training, Power Output Intervals, Anaerobic Training, High Intensity Intervals,
What are Power Intervals?
Power Intervals are a type of high-intensity cycling training. It consists of short bursts of maximum effort cycling, followed by a period of rest or lower intensity cycling. The goal of power intervals is to improve a cyclist’s anaerobic capacity and overall power output.
Power intervals are typically done in sets, with each set consisting of several repetitions of the interval. For example, a cyclist might do 5 sets of 30 seconds of maximum effort cycling followed by 30 seconds of rest or lower intensity cycling. The rest periods are important to allow the cyclist to recover and get ready for the next interval.
Power intervals have been shown to be highly effective in improving a cyclist’s anaerobic capacity and power output. In one study, cyclists who performed power intervals three times a week for 12 weeks saw an average increase of 18% in their power output.
Power intervals can be a great way to improve your cycling performance. They are intense, so it’s important to make sure you are properly warmed up before doing them and to listen to your body and not overdo it.
The Origin of Cycling Term 'Power Intervals'
The cycling term 'Power Intervals' was first used in the early 1990s in the United States. The term was coined by American cycling coach and consultant Joe Friel, who developed the technique for cyclists. The training technique consists of short, intense efforts that are designed to increase power output.
Friel's idea was to break up long rides with short bursts of high intensity. This would help cyclists build strength and endurance while avoiding overtraining. The technique was quickly adopted by cyclists around the world and has become a staple of cycling training.
Power intervals are still used today by cyclists of all levels. The technique has been adapted to fit the needs of different cyclists, but the core idea remains the same. It is a great way to increase power output, build strength, and avoid overtraining.
