Smiley Face Here

Todd from TTBike fit has done some very nice things with a combination of technologies I find fascinating. The individual things are:

1) The human body in motion

2) The bicycle

3) A camera

4) The web

Put a (hopefully motivated) person on a bike, film her riding in competition and use the power of the web to analyze, inform, educate and improve. Wow.

Here are several sample of his work from the TTlab in Rhode Island.

Slow motion camera (at 300fps) of Pros in Kona.

CompuTrainer Multi-Rider Studio

More of the studio.

As i mentioned this morning in class, we can learn from others and in the case of the Rini Carfrae slo-mo, you can really see how important a good fit is.

Also this morning we talked about the CompuTrianer Multi-Rider Center at the BAC and this weeks PTW (power to weight) testing. I took some comments after class and want to share them with you.

Q: What EXACTLY is a power-to-weight test?

A: We use the CompuTrainer ergometer to measure your output (in watts) to determine how much power you create on a given course. Your individual data (height, weight, age, gender) is pre-set providing half of the data. As you ride the course your ability to push through the distance and grade change gives us the reaming data to determine your PTW. Our test course this month is a 15 mile 'moderate' course.

Q: Why is this important?

A: Because it takes the subjectivity out of the equation. When we ride in spin class it is ALL RPE, Rate of Perceived Exertion. Heavy emphasis on perceived. With a CompuTrainer all data is objective, just numbers, science. You are what you do and there is no hiding. We then use this data to create training packages designed to improve the ratio, ending in you weighing less, with a refined BMI, riding faster and enjoying the benefits of each.

Q: What if I don't have a good road bike?

A: Not a problem, we have three bikes available that will fit 90% of the people. Just call to schedule an appointment and we'll get you set up.

Q: What if I don't race, why is speed important?

A: Because of the myriad non-race applications. Speed is another way of expressing fitness. If you are fast, most likely you're fit. Or, you need to be fit to be fast. One becomes the other. Moreover, we use many of the same formulas to obtain both, high intensity intervals, hill repeats, sprints, diet and recovery strategies all play a big part in the success of being both fit and fast.

Q: How much does it cost?

A: The initial PTW 15 mile test is free. We want you to see and feel, first hand, what the testing is like so you will become comfortable with the process. And then take the next steps to reaching your personal best.

Q: How do I sign up?

A: See the 'Post a Comment' tab below? Click it. A dialogue box will appear. Type in the box the day and time you would like to PTW test. Press the return button. I will be instantly notified and will respond to your comment immediately. Additionally, you can call the BAC at 206.842.5661, or me (RCVman) at 206.842.1099 or 360.674.8128.

Q: What days and hours are available?

A: M,W & F: 9-9. Tues & Thursday: 7-9, S&S: 10-5

Q: Is it really THAT easy?

A: Yes. The actual test is the hard part. (Insert smiley face here.)