A “pair of threes” for effective endurance training monitoring
Modern technology has dramatically improved our access to feedback about how the body responds during daily training sessions over the long-term training process. However, all the data and the new metrics can confuse instead of informing. One “trinity” to count on is 1) Power-Pace, 2) Physiology (HR, lactate, ventilation), 3) Perceptions (RPE) (P3). Integrating external load, internal load, and perception improves training monitoring by serving to balance the strengths and weaknesses of each individual source of feedback. Secondly, a Load-Stress-Strain framework, as used by engineers, but adapted to our biology will help us make better training management decisions. By using these 3 terms consistently and linking them to monitoring outcomes, we can help our athletes stay health and keep improving.
Stephen Seiler - Biosketch
After growing up and earning his PhD in the US Stephen Seiler has lived and worked in Norway for over 25 years as a university teacher, researcher, and leader. He is past Vice-Rector for Research and Innovation and past Dean of the Faculty of Health and Sport Sciences at the University of Agder in Kristiansand, Norway. Seiler has become internationally recognized for his research publications and lectures related to the organization of endurance training and intensity distribution. This work has included both descriptive and experimental approaches, investigating cyclists, rowers, XC skiers, orienteers, triathletes, and distance runners. His work has influenced and catalyzed international research around training intensity distribution, stress and recovery, and optimization of the endurance training process.