Training Glossary

Below is a glossary of common terms used during training:

Aerobic rides: These are usually longer 2+ hour rides where the focus is to build your aerobic base, where you will be riding at an effort that is well below your threshold power. The goal of these rides is to increase your endurance.

Cadence:  This is the rate of your pedalling, measured in RPM (revolutions per minute). Your cadence is the number of times your foot rotates through a complete pedal stroke every minute. Training at difference cadences can help build muscular strength and refine your pedalling efficiency.

ERG Mode: Short for “ergometer,” but that's not important. Putting your smart trainer into ERG mode means the trainer will adjust the resistance (how hard it is to pedal) automatically to match your wattage targets for each interval. No need to change gears during your workout.

FTP (Functional Threshold Power): Your Functional Threshold Power (FTP) is the maximum average power that you can hold for one hour. It can be calculated by performing an FTP test indoors, or by performing a test out on the road (for example, a 40km time trial). 

In FulGaz, we test your FTP using the Kinglake FTP Test. This is a short warm-up, followed by a 20-minute continuous effort. We take 95% of your 20-minute average power as your FTP.

FulGaz: A play on the cycling expression "Full Gas." If a cyclist is pushing themselves to the full extent of their abilities, they are said to be riding "Full Gas." It's hoped that the FulGaz app will help you enjoy and increase your "Full Gas" cycling capabilities!

Interval: An interval refers to a "block" during a workout. Each interval has a set power target depending on the intensity of the workout. Bernard will let you know your wattage target for each interval beforehand (and, if in ERG mode, your trainer will adjust the resistance accordingly). 

Resistance: This is the amount of "force" being applied by your trainer, more resistance makes it harder to turn the pedals, which in turn require you to produce more power. 

Smart Trainer: If you are reading this, it's likely you have a smart trainer! A smart trainer clamps your bike's rear wheel (wheel-on) or connects to the drivetrain with the rear wheel removed (direct-drive) and allows the resistance to be controlled by cycling apps such FulGaz! 

Watts / Wattage: This is the amount of power you are producing. Power = Force x Velocity. In cycling this is the product of torque (force on the pedals) and cadence (pedalling speed).