I was lucky enough to be on the demo list for this product and have had the opportunity to run it through 2 tests (on a test subject and myself). Both of these tests were done in the cycling mode of their multisport device. Both of these tests were done outside of a lab with only power going through the device (as opposed to both power and heart rate)
Pros:
-The interface of the app and the connection to the device is extremely fast and easy to use. Once downloading their app, it took roughly 5 minutes to answer the questions and sync your device to your power meter.
- Once everything is set up, it is as simple as following the instructions on screen. You will simply bump up your watts to the required number and hold for 3 minutes.. continue until you can not
- After the test, I was extremely thankful that I didn't have to put myself through a 20 min FTP test. Rather, Only the last 6 minutes seemed exhausting and that is much easier from a mental standpoint.
- Upon completion of the test I was given my LT for watts (roughly 30 seconds after finishing the test)
Cons:
- I'm fairly convinced that the training zones the device suggests are high and not accurate as of now. (ex: 300 FTP is showing up with a recovery zone from 0-254)
- Wouldn't seem to sync with heart rate monitor in both cases. Perhaps just the device I was given?
- After the test is completed, all I can see through the app is just the LT watt and zones. I would like to see the actual progression of LT and data
- Without a computrainer, I had to keep my power steady on each step of the test or else the test will fail and you'll have to call for the results (I was lucky enough to hold steady power and not have to call)
Going forward:
- I will be taking this device into the lab hopefully in the near future to try on a treadmill and compare it with an actual blood test. This will be interesting. I'm sure there is so much more out there to learn with this device
Overall thoughts:
- For anyone that wants to know for certain what their LT is on the bike or run, this looks to be a great option. I found it mentally easier to push myself through a graded exercise test as opposed to a traditional FTP. There are still many questions I have and how to practically fit these in with training (oxygenation levels, training with the device? Only a testing device?) but overall I can see the value in having one rather than relying 100% on a FTP test. Overall this device allows for standardization of a cycling/running test that would prove extremely useful for athletes over the long haul.
There is still plenty to understand and test with this device, but as of right now I'm impressed with the ease of use and results.
--------------------------------------------------------------------
COROS Sports Science
Pros:
-The interface of the app and the connection to the device is extremely fast and easy to use. Once downloading their app, it took roughly 5 minutes to answer the questions and sync your device to your power meter.
- Once everything is set up, it is as simple as following the instructions on screen. You will simply bump up your watts to the required number and hold for 3 minutes.. continue until you can not
- After the test, I was extremely thankful that I didn't have to put myself through a 20 min FTP test. Rather, Only the last 6 minutes seemed exhausting and that is much easier from a mental standpoint.
- Upon completion of the test I was given my LT for watts (roughly 30 seconds after finishing the test)
Cons:
- I'm fairly convinced that the training zones the device suggests are high and not accurate as of now. (ex: 300 FTP is showing up with a recovery zone from 0-254)
- Wouldn't seem to sync with heart rate monitor in both cases. Perhaps just the device I was given?
- After the test is completed, all I can see through the app is just the LT watt and zones. I would like to see the actual progression of LT and data
- Without a computrainer, I had to keep my power steady on each step of the test or else the test will fail and you'll have to call for the results (I was lucky enough to hold steady power and not have to call)
Going forward:
- I will be taking this device into the lab hopefully in the near future to try on a treadmill and compare it with an actual blood test. This will be interesting. I'm sure there is so much more out there to learn with this device
Overall thoughts:
- For anyone that wants to know for certain what their LT is on the bike or run, this looks to be a great option. I found it mentally easier to push myself through a graded exercise test as opposed to a traditional FTP. There are still many questions I have and how to practically fit these in with training (oxygenation levels, training with the device? Only a testing device?) but overall I can see the value in having one rather than relying 100% on a FTP test. Overall this device allows for standardization of a cycling/running test that would prove extremely useful for athletes over the long haul.
There is still plenty to understand and test with this device, but as of right now I'm impressed with the ease of use and results.
--------------------------------------------------------------------
COROS Sports Science