Hi,
This has been on my mind for a couple of years now, but I have until now ignored it.
My Edge 1040 gives me Daily suggested workouts with an estimated Training Effect (TE) and I have since the turn of the year decided to follow the suggestions.
However, I assume Garmin somehow estimates my required TE in order to work that energy system properly, but I very rarely reach the estimated TE!
Today, for example, Garmin suggested a Threshold workout;
1. Warmup 15:00 161-210W
2. Interval 08:00 245-275W
3. Recover 04:00 131-190W
4. Repeat 2-3 3x
5. Cool down 15:00 131-190W
This would give me an Aerobic TE of 3.8 and a Anaerobic TE of 2.0
Outcome:
I did all the steps at the higher Watt range, and when I had finished the third interval my aerobic TE was at 2.8 and my Anaerobic TE at 0, and in order to get close to the calculated TE's I had to add two intervals (still only ended up at Aerobic TE 3,6) as well as a couple of all-out sprints at the end of my workout.
I believe I have my heart rate data set as it should be, and my power zones are accurately set based on a reliable FTP test.
I'd appreciate any input on this!
Cheers,
Matt