I’ve just signed up a month ago or so. This week i was supposed to do some pace-based tests to calibrate the training plan. I’ve noticed that with the current snowy and icy conditions, my pace drops significantly compared to other seasons. I’m wondering how useful these pace-based tests (like MAF or critical speed) really are in winter when pace is heavily influenced by conditions.
Since the AI coach gives me both heart rate and pace ranges for every session, I was wondering if it would make more sense to just focus on heart rate for my runs instead? That way I can ensure I’m training in the correct zones, even if my pace is slower than usual. Has anyone else switched to HR-only training in winter, and what was your experience? How well does Athletica manages that?
Just checked and i actually do have access to an indoor track ! Thanks for the tip lol ! I guess i’ll test myself there a couple of times over the winter to keep track of progress but I’ll have to do most of my sessions outdoors
Great question. The pace-based tests collect your performance data-heart rate, power and pace-and use it to calculate your critical power/pace alongside corresponding heart rates.
I recommend using the AI Coach option (found under the Connections tab). It will automatically choose the most appropriate metric for each session. During early base training, the AI Coach typically prioritizes heart rate to guide aerobic development, recovery rides, and strength endurance sessions. Your plan will also include short and long HIIT sessions, which will be managed by power or pace.
While you can set Athletica to use only pace, power or heart rate, the advantage of automatic selections is that adapts to your fitness, form, fatigue and current training phase over time.
If weather is a limiting factor, I suggest using heart rate to guide your sessions-staying safe on icy or snowy surfaces is far more important than hitting power or pace targets. I live near the Great Lakes, so I understand! As conditions improve, you can switch back to AI Coach selection to get the full mix of training metrics.
Absolutely go by heart rate.
Running on snow/ice will make your pace slower and also add injury risk from potential falls.
If you don’t have a safe place to do the test- and you are confident your training zones are fine, skip them.
Then train by heart rate only. Nothing wrong with that, actually conditions may slow you down so you. Use treadmill for hiit and SE if possible.
MJ
Thanks for the explanation!
However, when I go to the Connections tab in the iOS app, I only see the options to sync with Garmin, Strava, TrainingPeaks, etc. There is no AI Coach option anywhere in that menu.
Good point. You will not be able to make the change in the iOS app. You will need to sign into your account through the Athletica website to make the update.
As conditions improve, you can switch back to AI Coach selection to get the full mix of training metrics.