Is it necessary to improve the FTP for an amateur cyclist doing cycling tests? / Great backgrounds?

First of all, We are going to define and contextualize what the Functional Threshold Potential (FTP) or Functional Power Threshold is.. It is the maximum average power (in watts) that a cyclist can maintain for approximately one hour of sustained effort..

This anaerobic threshold is physiologically determined by the lactate concentration (around 4 mmol./.), which we could define as the physiological milestone of MLSS, with values ​​above this concentration the time of sustained effort is considerably reduced, instead, Values ​​below are much more aerobic jobs that allow us to sustain it for more than an hour of effort.

That being said, We can say that it is important to improve the FTP but not decisive, since other factors come into play in cycle touring/grand fund tests, The route of the test will also depend a little to determine or not whether to upload this FTP.

What can improve FTP in amateur cycling

Improving FTP will allow us to:

1. Increase watts in different training zones, that is to say, at equal or greater power, lower perception of effort, faster speed and better physical performance.
2. Manage efforts more productively over time.
3. Upload ports faster and more efficiently.

On the other hand, Other factors will have to be taken into account when preparing for a cycling test. / great background, what they are like:

1. The improvement of the first ventilatory threshold about VT1.
2. Work in intensity ranges around Z3-TEMPO and Z4 low-Sweetspot.
3. Improved fatigue resistance – Stamina, since they are long-term tests.
4. The nutritional strategy you plan and use during the test.

In conclusion, Improving your FTP will help you face the objective of the cycling test in better physical condition. / great fund that you mark. But it is important to make balanced planning, to obtain the maximum possible performance in tests with a certain slope.