RPE is Fundamental - Ep173

Riders use P as a goal and think it is an objective. It is not an objective, it is a measure of output. It is an artificial construct, a mathematical calculation. 

The objective of training is physiological load: SAID principle. It does not matter how many watts you do, what matters is, did you load the system appropriately given the context of your training? 

The objective racing is not P. It is speed. In mass start racing, it is speed at the right time. In time trialling, it is also speed at the right time. 

RPE is primary to power in the hierarchy of relationship to the sport of cycling. Unfortunately, many modern riders misunderstand this. We might say their entire relationship with the sport is upside down. 

In this walking podcast, I discuss the proper relationship of Power and Relative Perceived Exertion.