There is one feature that I use with other software that Garmin does not currently use which is the ability to display Training Stress Score (TSS) Chronic Training Load (CTL), Acute Training Load (ATL) and Training Stress Balance (TSB) to manage over-training and fitness levels etc. With this feature I would be able to use Garmin Connect exclusively.
As I am currently in training for my first Half Ironman event, this is possible the most important feature for me, and enables me to avoid over training injuries and change my training plans accordingly and to view my fitness peaks are peaking at the appropriate times.
These training loads are based on several different types of TSS that are customizable by the user which are:
- TSS based on normalized power for cycling
- rTSS, running TSS based on Workout time series with pace and elevation data, user threshold pace for run/walk (entered in pace/speed zones)
- sTSS, swimming TSS based on workout moving duration, distance, user threshold speed for swim (entered in speed zones)
- hrTSS, heart rate TSS, Workout time series heart rate data, user threshold heart rate (entered in heart rate zones)
- tTSS, TRIMPS Training Stress Score (tTSS) is based on average heart rate, total duration of the workout and the person's physiological heart rate properties (resting heart rate, threshold heart rate, and maximum heart rate).
