AI cycling coach: power, FTP and a plan that responds to recovery
Cycling tolerates volume but not random training: intervals for their own sake do not raise FTP. SkolCoach prescribes power- and heart-rate-based work with a purpose each week, then checks HRV and sleep every morning to confirm you are ready for it.
Power-based training
A power meter is cycling’s most objective sensor: wind, gradients and fatigue do not distort watts. SkolCoach prescribes intervals relative to your FTP and tracks its trend through real rides, without requiring an all-out test every month. The estimate updates as new training data arrives. Without a power meter, your plan uses heart rate and speed.
What the plan accounts for
- FTP and its trend — updated from actual efforts rather than a fixed testing calendar.
- Weekly load, including TSS and its appropriate range — distinguishes productive progression from accumulating fatigue.
- HRV, sleep and resting heart rate — demanding interval sessions are scheduled for days when you are ready.
- Other sports — for triathletes, cycling is coordinated with running and swimming rather than treated in isolation.
Race preparation
Gran fondos, time trials and mountain marathons each demand different preparation: threshold work for time trials, sustained sweet-spot blocks for gran fondos and climbing-specific work for mountain events. The taper reduces volume while retaining intensity so you reach the start fresh rather than overcooked.
FAQ
Do I need a power meter?
No, but it makes the plan more precise. Without one, your coach uses heart rate and speed, which is sufficient for base volume and most intervals. A power meter adds accurate FTP-based zones and objective progress tracking.
How is FTP tracked without regular tests?
Through actual training: your coach analyses your strongest efforts over a rolling period and proposes an FTP update when the data supports it. No monthly 20-minute eyeballs-out test is required.
Can I use it for both MTB and road cycling?
Yes. The coach works from training load and power rather than bike type. Complete your intervals on the road, indoor trainer or mountain bike; the session is accounted for consistently through TSS.
What if I train on Zwift?
Sessions from Zwift, Wahoo and other platforms arrive through intervals.icu with power and heart-rate data. Indoor intervals are prescribed using the same watts and zones as outdoor sessions.
See how it works with your own data
Connect your watch and sensors — SkolCoach will import your history, assess your current fitness and map out the next steps. Get 30 days of Pro free — no card required.
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